USCIS to Suspend Biometrics for H-4, L-2 and E Dependents

May 5, 2021

The USCIS will be suspending the biometrics requirement for Form I-539 extension/change of status applications of H-4, L-2 and E-1, E-2 and E-3 dependents for a 2 year period, beginning May 17, 2021. 

We expect a formal announcement soon from the USCIS. They revealed their plans in a declaration submitted in federal court related to a lawsuit challenging the lengthy processing times of EADs for those categories of dependents. 

The suspension of biometrics will apply to I-539 applications

• Pending on May 17, 2021, and who have not yet received an appointment notice for biometrics, and
• New I-539 applications received by the USCIS from May 17, 2021 through the expiration date of the suspension.

Anyone who has received an appointment for biometrics should plan to attend that appointment. If the official USCIS announcement directs otherwise, we will post an update on our website. 

In addition, we expect that the USCIS will not require biometrics fees during the effective period, and that the USCIS will not refund any payments already collected. 

Please check our website for further updates.