What It Means When USCIS Modifies Biometrics Regulations for Detained Immigrants
The way USCIS handles biometrics for detained immigrants has been modified. The upgrade increases the consequences for anyone who misses a planned biometrics visit and restricts the gathering of fingerprints within correctional facilities.
In order to minimize needless or deceptive claims and to improve consistency in its biometrics collection procedure, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has secretly modified its official policy manual. People who are currently jailed in the United States and have outstanding immigration applications are most impacted by the move, which went into force immediately.
Let's put it in simple terms.
USCIS Modifies Detainees' Biometric Policy
According to USCIS, unless an immigrant is in removal proceedings and has an application or petition pending with the immigration court system, officially known as the Executive Office for Immigration Review, it will typically not take fingerprints or other biometrics from detained immigrants.
Until now, it has been unclear who was in charge of gathering biometrics when a detained person had a case with USCIS. This update supersedes previous instructions and resolves any confusion.
Until now, it has been unclear who was responsible for collecting biometrics when a detained individual had a USCIS case. This update clears up any uncertainty and replaces earlier instructions.
Who Will Be Impacted?
This modification to biometrics regulations primarily affects:
Immigrants incarcerated in jails, prisons, or other federal or non-government correctional facilities
People in custody who have submitted petitions or applications for immigration
There is no impact on families, guests, or applicants from outside detention.
What This Signifies in Practice
They shouldn't anticipate having their biometrics taken inside the facility if they are detained and have an immigration case with USCIS. Instead, if USCIS arranges one, individuals have to show up for their scheduled biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center.
USCIS will probably reject the application since it will be deemed abandoned if they fail to show up for that appointment.
Why USCIS Claims to Have Made This Update
The agency aims to cut down on pointless or spurious applications from individuals who might submit them merely to avoid being removed. In order to avoid uncertainty regarding who is responsible for biometrics, it also wants consistent practices across several offices.
What Applicants in Detention Must Do Right Now
Verify that USCIS has the detention facility's accurate postal address.
Pay close attention to appointment notices.
If at all possible, show up for the biometrics appointment on time.
Seek legal assistance to prevent missing appointments or deadlines.
Concluding Remarks
Both new and pending requests are now subject to the new biometrics policy, which is currently in effect. Missed biometrics appointments increase the chance of case denial for detained immigrants. Nothing changes for everyone else
