How to Find and Prepare for Your USCIS Appointment

Where to find your USCIS appointment notice and what it tells you

Your USCIS appointment notice arrives by mail at the address you provided on your application or petition. The notice — officially called a Form I-797 — contains the date, time, and location of your appointment, plus the office code and what documents to bring. Keep this notice. You will need it to enter the building.

If you applied online through USCIS.gov, you can also check your case status there using your receipt number (the number starting with three letters, like EAC or WAC). The online status will show "appointment scheduled" once the notice is mailed, though the physical letter usually arrives within one to two weeks. Do not rely on the online status alone — the physical notice is your proof of the appointment time and location.

The notice will specify whether you are going for an interview, biometrics, or document review. Each type requires different preparation. Read the "What you must bring" section carefully — USCIS will not reschedule you if you arrive without required documents.

Key Takeaways

• Your appointment notice arrives by mail and contains your date, time, office location, and a list of required documents — do not throw it away.
• Biometrics appointments require you to provide fingerprints and a photo; interviews require you to answer questions about your application and bring original documents.
• Arrive 15 minutes early with a valid photo ID, your appointment notice, and every document listed on the back of the notice.
• If you cannot attend, contact USCIS through your online account or call the field office directly — missing an appointment without rescheduling can result in case denial.
• Bring originals of documents, not copies, unless the notice specifically says copies are acceptable.

What to bring to a biometrics appointment

A biometrics appointment is when USCIS collects your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This is standard for most applications and petitions. Bring your appointment notice, a valid photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID), and the original of any document that proves your identity or current immigration status — such as a birth certificate, passport, green card, or work permit.

Wear clothing that allows your arms to be photographed clearly. Remove hats, sunglasses, and headwear unless you wear them for religious reasons — in that case, your face must still be visible. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will not be interviewed; a USCIS officer will take your biometrics and you will leave.

If you are applying for a work permit or green card, USCIS will run a background check using your fingerprints. This is why the appointment is required — they cannot process your case without it. The results typically come back within two to four weeks, though this varies by case type and office workload.

What to bring to an interview appointment

An interview appointment means a USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application or petition. Bring your appointment notice, a valid photo ID, and originals of every document mentioned on the back of your notice. This usually includes your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce decrees, police clearance letters, medical exam results, and any letters of support or employment verification you submitted with your application.

Bring documents in the order listed on your notice. If you have a translator, confirm with USCIS before the appointment that a translator is permitted — some offices allow them, others do not. If you are bringing a family member or attorney, they may be allowed in the interview room, but check your notice first.

The officer will ask you to confirm information from your application, explain your relationship to any petitioner (if applicable), and verify your background. Answer honestly and directly. If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to repeat it. Do not guess or provide information not asked for. The interview typically lasts 20 to 45 minutes, depending on your case.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you cannot attend your appointment, you must reschedule before the appointment date. Log into your USCIS account online and look for a "Reschedule Appointment" option. Not all case types allow online rescheduling — if you do not see this option, call the USCIS field office listed on your notice and ask to speak with someone who handles scheduling.

When you call, have your receipt number and appointment notice ready. Explain why you need to reschedule. USCIS will offer you a new date, usually within two to four weeks. Write down the new date and time, and ask for confirmation in writing if possible.

If you miss your appointment without rescheduling, USCIS may deny your case. Some offices will send you a notice giving you a chance to explain the absence, but this is not may provide. If you miss your appointment, contact the field office immediately and explain what happened.

What happens after your appointment

After a biometrics appointment, USCIS will process your background check. You will not hear anything during this time unless there is a problem. Check your online case status every week or two — it will update when your results are ready. If your case requires an interview, USCIS will send you a separate interview notice once biometrics are complete.

After an interview, the officer may tell you the decision on the spot, or they may tell you they will mail you a decision letter. If they do not tell you, do not ask — they are following procedure. Check your online case status and your mail regularly. A decision letter usually arrives within two to four weeks, though some cases take longer.

If USCIS needs more information after your appointment, they will send you a Request for Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID). These letters explain exactly what documents or information you need to send and by what date. Follow the instructions precisely and send everything by the deadline.

Preparing documents before your appointment

Start gathering documents at least two weeks before your appointment. Make a checklist from the back of your notice and check off each item as you find it. If a document is in another language, you will need a certified English translation — this means a professional translator or translation service, not a friend or family member. The translator must sign a statement saying the translation is accurate.

Organize your documents in the order listed on your notice. Use a folder or binder to keep them together. Bring originals, not copies, unless your notice specifically says copies are acceptable. If you are missing a document, contact the field office before your appointment and ask whether you can bring it late or whether the appointment can proceed without it.

If you have a criminal record, traffic violations, or immigration violations, do not hide them. USCIS will find them during the background check. It is better to disclose them yourself and explain the circumstances than to have the officer discover them and question why you did not mention them.

Arriving at your USCIS appointment

Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring your appointment notice and photo ID. Leave extra time for parking and security screening — USCIS field offices are in federal buildings, and you may need to go through a metal detector. Do not bring weapons, sharp objects, or large bags.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give them your appointment notice. They will direct you to a waiting area. When your name is called, go to the window or interview room. Bring all your documents with you — do not leave them at the front desk.

If you are running late, call the field office immediately and tell them. Some offices will hold your appointment for 15 to 30 minutes; others will not. It is better to call and ask than to arrive late and find your appointment has been canceled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

You can bring a family member or attorney, but check your appointment notice first — some offices restrict who can enter the interview room. If you bring an attorney, they can advise you but usually cannot answer questions for you. The officer will ask you the questions directly.

What if I lost my appointment notice?

Log into your USCIS account online and print a copy of your case status page, which shows your appointment date and location. You can also call the field office and give them your receipt number — they can tell you the appointment details over the phone. Bring whatever proof you have to the appointment.

Can I reschedule my appointment online?

Some case types allow online rescheduling through your USCIS account. If you do not see a reschedule option, call the field office directly. Have your receipt number and appointment notice ready when you call.

What if USCIS sends me an RFE after my appointment?

An RFE (Request for Evidence) means USCIS needs more documents or information to make a decision. The letter will list exactly what you need to send and the deadline — usually 12 to 15 days. Send everything by the deadline, or your case may be denied. Mail it to the address on the RFE, not to the field office.

How long does it take to get a decision after my interview?

Some officers tell you the decision at the end of the interview. Others mail a decision letter within two to four weeks. Check your online case status regularly — it will update when a decision is made. Do not call the field office to ask about your decision; they cannot tell you over the phone.