Biometrics and Fingerprinting Appointment for US Visit Visa

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 11, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

So, you’re all set to apply for your US Visit Visa, and you’ve probably heard about the biometrics and fingerprinting step. It might sound a bit nerve-wracking, but don’t worry—this is actually one of the easiest parts of the process!

The whole thing is straightforward and takes less than 15 minutes.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about the biometrics appointment for your US visa so that you can show up fully prepared and stress-free.

What Is a Biometrics Appointment?

The biometrics appointment is a mandatory part of the US visa process. This is where the US government collects your fingerprints, photo, and signature as part of their identity verification and security screening process.

Basically, they just want to ensure that you are who you say you are and to maintain records for future travel.

Tip: This is not your visa interview! It’s purely an administrative process where no visa decisions are made.

When and Where Does the Biometrics Appointment Happen?

Once you’ve submitted your DS-160 form and paid the visa application fee, you’ll need to schedule two appointments:

1. The biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
2. The visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.

The biometrics appointment typically takes place a few days before your visa interview. It’s important to schedule both appointments as close together as possible, but you will always need to complete the biometrics first.

What Documents Should You Bring?

You don’t need to bring a ton of paperwork to your biometrics appointment, but there are a few essential documents you MUST have with you. Here’s what to carry:

• Valid passport: The passport you’re using for the visa application.
• DS-160 confirmation page: This is the page you got after submitting your DS-160 form, with the barcode.
• Visa appointment confirmation letter: This confirms that you’ve scheduled the biometrics appointment and visa interview.

Tip: Always check the specific requirements on the website of the US embassy or consulate you’re dealing with, just in case they ask for additional documents.

What Happens During the Appointment?

When you arrive at the Visa Application Center (VAC) for your biometrics appointment, here’s what you can expect:

1. Security check: First things first, you’ll go through a security screening similar to what you’d experience at an airport. No electronic devices like phones or smartwatches are allowed inside.
2. Document verification: They’ll check your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, and appointment confirmation letter.
3. Fingerprints: The staff will take your fingerprints using a digital scanner. It’s quick and painless—just a simple scan of all 10 fingers.
4. Photo: They will also take a digital photo of you. Make sure you don’t wear any accessories like glasses or hats.
5. Signature: Lastly, you’ll be asked to provide a digital signature.

That’s it! The entire process is over in a flash, and you’re free to go once all your biometrics are collected.

What to Wear and How to Prepare

You don’t need to stress about your biometrics appointment, but here are a few quick tips to ensure things go smoothly:

• Dress casually: There’s no need to dress formally for this appointment. Just be neat and presentable.
• Avoid wearing glasses or accessories: Since they will take a photo, leave out anything that might obstruct your face.
• Be punctual: Arrive at least 15-20 minutes early so that you can go through security and document checks without rushing.

Tip: Keep your fingers clean! If your fingers are too dry or too wet, the scanner may have trouble reading your prints, and it might take longer.

After the Biometrics Appointment

Once the biometrics appointment is done, you’re one step closer to your visa! Next, you’ll attend your visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. Don’t forget to bring all your required documents for that as well.

There’s no follow-up needed after the biometrics appointment—you won’t get any results or feedback.

The biometric data is simply sent to the US immigration authorities for verification, and you proceed with the rest of the visa process.

Common Questions About Biometrics Appointments

Can I Reschedule My Biometrics Appointment?

Yes, you can reschedule if necessary, but try to avoid this unless absolutely needed. Changing your appointment might push your visa interview date further back.

Will My Visa Be Rejected If There’s an Issue With My Biometrics?

No, your visa will not be rejected based on biometrics alone. If there are issues with fingerprint scanning, they may ask you to retake the prints, but it won’t directly impact your visa outcome.

Is There a Fee for Biometrics?

The fee for the biometrics appointment is included in the overall visa application fee, so there’s no need to pay extra.

Final Thoughts

The biometrics and fingerprinting appointment is a quick and simple process, but it’s an essential step in your US visa journey. As long as you bring the required documents, show up on time, and follow the instructions, you’ll breeze through it.

Tip: Don’t confuse this appointment with your visa interview—it’s purely an administrative step, so relax!

Once you’ve completed your biometrics, all that’s left is your visa interview, and then you’ll be one step closer to your US trip.