How to Reschedule Your USCIS Biometrics Appointment

You can reschedule a biometrics appointment online, by phone, or by mail — but the method depends on which notice you received

USCIS sends you a biometrics notice with a specific date, time, and location. If you cannot make that appointment, you have options to change it. The fastest way is usually the online portal if you have a USCIS account. If that is not available to you, you can call the USCIS Contact Center or send a written request by mail. The key is acting before your scheduled date — rescheduling after you miss an appointment is harder and may delay your case.

Your notice will tell you which method USCIS prefers for your situation. Some notices include a phone number or online link; others direct you to mail a request. Start with the method listed on your notice, because that is the channel USCIS has set up for your specific case.

Key Takeaways

• Check your biometrics notice for the rescheduling method USCIS lists — online, phone, or mail — and use that method first.
• If you have a USCIS online account, you may be able to reschedule directly through the portal without calling or mailing anything.
• The USCIS Contact Center phone line is 1-800-375-5283; have your notice and A-number (alien number) ready when you call.
• If you mail a request, send it to the address on your notice and include your name, A-number, current appointment date, and the new date you are requesting.
• Reschedule as soon as you know you cannot attend — waiting until after the appointment date makes the process longer and may affect your case timeline.

Rescheduling through your USCIS online account

If you created a USCIS account when you filed your petition or application, log in to check whether you can reschedule directly. Not all case types allow online rescheduling, but many do. Once you log in, look for your pending case and check whether a "Reschedule Appointment" or similar option appears.

To use this method, you will need your username and password. If you do not have an account or cannot remember your login, you can create one at uscis.gov using your email address. The system will ask you to verify your identity, which usually takes a few minutes. Once you are logged in and can see your case, follow the prompts to select a new date and time from the available slots.

After you submit a reschedule request online, USCIS will send you a confirmation. Keep that confirmation and your new notice together. If the system does not show a reschedule option for your case, move to the phone or mail method instead.

Calling the USCIS Contact Center to reschedule

The main USCIS phone line is 1-800-375-5283. Have your biometrics notice and your A-number (the eight-digit number on your notice) ready before you call. The wait time varies depending on the time of day and how busy the center is; calling early in the morning often means a shorter wait.

When you reach a representative, explain that you need to reschedule your biometrics appointment. They will ask for your A-number, your current appointment date, and the reason you cannot attend. You do not need to provide a detailed explanation — "I have a work conflict" or "I have a medical appointment" is sufficient. The representative will then show you available dates and times at your scheduled location and let you choose one.

After the call, USCIS will mail you a new appointment notice with your rescheduled date. This usually arrives within one to two weeks. If you do not receive it by then, call back to confirm the reschedule went through.

Mailing a written reschedule request

If your notice includes a mailing address or if you prefer to request the change in writing, you can send a letter to the address listed on your biometrics notice. Write a simple letter that includes your full name, your A-number, your current appointment date and time, and the new date you are requesting (or ask USCIS to assign you the next available slot).

Keep your letter brief and clear. You do not need to explain why you cannot attend. Include a copy of your biometrics notice with the letter. Mail it to the address on the notice, and send it at least two weeks before your scheduled appointment date to give USCIS time to process it.

USCIS will respond by mail with your new appointment notice. This method takes longer than calling or using the online portal — typically three to four weeks from the time USCIS receives your letter. If your appointment is coming up soon, use the phone method instead.

What happens if you miss your appointment without rescheduling

If you do not show up and did not reschedule, USCIS will send you a notice explaining what happened. In some cases, they will give you a chance to reschedule. In others, they may deny your application or petition because you failed to appear for a required appointment. The consequences depend on your case type and whether USCIS considers the absence excusable.

If you miss your appointment, contact USCIS immediately — the same day if possible — to explain and request a new date. Call 1-800-375-5283 and tell them you missed your biometrics appointment. Have your notice ready. The sooner you reschedule, the better your chances of avoiding a denial.

Rescheduling when you have a legitimate conflict

USCIS understands that conflicts happen. You do not need permission or a doctor's note to reschedule — you can request a new date for any reason. However, if you have a serious conflict (a medical emergency, a death in the family, military deployment), mentioning it when you call or write can help if there are any questions later about why you missed the original date.

Try to reschedule for a date that works for you, but if no available slots match your schedule, ask the USCIS representative whether they can note your situation in your file. Some offices have flexibility for genuine hardships, though this is not may provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reschedule my biometrics appointment more than once?

Yes, you can reschedule multiple times if needed. Each time, use the same method — online, phone, or mail — and request a new date as soon as you know you cannot attend. However, repeated rescheduling may eventually prompt USCIS to ask why you are not attending, so reschedule only when you have a genuine conflict.

What if I do not have my A-number?

Your A-number is on your biometrics notice. If you cannot find the notice, call 1-800-375-5283 and have your name, date of birth, and the case type (green card, work permit, etc.) ready. The representative can look up your A-number and help you reschedule.

How far in advance can I reschedule?

You can reschedule anytime before your appointment date. There is no minimum or maximum advance notice required. However, rescheduling closer to your appointment date may limit the available slots, so reschedule as soon as you know you cannot attend.

Will rescheduling delay my case?

Rescheduling itself does not automatically delay your case. However, the longer you wait to reschedule, the longer it may take to get a new appointment, which can push back the rest of your processing timeline. Reschedule promptly to minimize any impact.

What if the online portal does not show my case?

Not all cases appear in the online portal immediately. If you cannot see your case, call 1-800-375-5283 or mail a written request instead. The phone method is usually faster if you need to reschedule soon.