The USCIS has established comprehensive guidelines for individuals entering their offices, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial to call the specific service center ahead of your visit to confirm its operational status, as some offices may have varying schedules or temporary closures based on health guidelines.
a. Visitors cannot enter the office if you:
Understanding these protocols is important to ensure your visit is smooth and successful. This includes being aware of the health and safety measures that have been put in place to protect both the visitors and the staff at USCIS offices.
- Have any symptoms of COVID-19, including cough, fever, or difficulty breathing
- Have been in close contact with anyone known or suspected to have COVID-19 in the last 14 days
- Have been individually directed to self-quarantine or self-isolate by a health care provider or public health official within the last 14 days.
b. Visitors cannot enter the building more than 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment, which helps to maintain social distancing protocols within the waiting areas.
c. Visitors are required to wear a facial covering that adequately covers both the nose and mouth. USCIS may provide a mask if a visitor arrives without one, but it’s advisable to bring your own to avoid any delays or the possibility of being asked to reschedule.
d. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the entry points.
e. You may not enter the facility more than 15 minutes before their appointment (30 minutes for naturalization ceremonies).
f. Visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines by following the markings, signs, and physical barriers set up throughout the facility. This is essential to minimize the risk of virus transmission.
In addition to wearing a mask, it’s important to remember that these safety measures are in place to ensure everyone’s health, including maintaining proper hygiene by washing hands regularly or using hand sanitizer.
g. Visitors should expect that they may be asked health screening questions.
g. Visitors should expect to undergo health screening questions upon entry. These questions may include inquiries about recent travel, potential exposure to COVID-19, and any symptoms you may have experienced.
It’s also recommended to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others while in the waiting area or any public spaces within the USCIS facility.
Additional instructions may be provided on any appointment notices, so reviewing them thoroughly is essential.
More information on visiting USCIS facilities can be found at uscis.gov/visitorpolicy.
These instructions may include details about what documents to bring, how to prepare for your interview, and any other specific requirements that may vary based on your individual case. It’s important to stay informed to avoid any last-minute complications.
Visitors are limited to the following individuals only, to reduce the number of people in the facility:
- The applicant
- A lawyer or authorized representative. Alternatively, a lawyer or authorized representative may assist by telephone. The applicant should notify the officer so the officer can contact the lawyer/representative “via the phone number listed on the Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance of Attorney or Accredited Representative.”
- Someone who can provide disability assistance (including a family member)
It’s also important to note that these limitations are designed to ensure social distancing and minimize the potential spread of COVID-19 in the facility.
Unless requested by USCIS, interpreters should be available via telephone for the interview. They must provide the applicant with a valid phone number to ensure USCIS can reach them.
Having legal representation can be beneficial, especially in complex cases or if you have questions regarding your application. Ensure that your representative is well-informed about your situation to provide accurate advice and guidance.
“If an applicant needs a Sign Language Interpreter or Certified Deaf Interpreter, they should reach out to the USCIS Contact Center online or call 1-800-375-5283 as soon as possible after receiving their interview notice.”
If a physical interpreter is necessary, it’s crucial to arrange this ahead of time to avoid delays in the interview process. Communicating with USCIS about your needs is essential.
Due to enhanced COVID-19 security measures at our Application Support Centers (ASCs), you may experience:
- A longer wait time to receive your biometrics appointment notice
- Restrictions limiting access to ASCs
- Longer biometrics collection times
These adjustments are made to ensure everyone’s safety, and it’s advisable to remain patient, as these procedures are essential for public health.
Being prepared for these questions can speed up the entry process and help ensure compliance with health regulations. It’s advisable to answer honestly to safeguard everyone’s health during your visit.
Rescheduling of Cancelled ASC Appointments
If your appointment was canceled due to an office closure (related to COVID-19), the ASC will automatically reschedule your appointment and notify you regarding biometrics reuse for eligible individuals. If you do not receive a notification within 90 days after the office reopens, you should follow up by calling 800-375-5283.
USCIS doesn’t automatically reschedule appointments for Canadian and United Kingdom visa applicants.
It is important to keep your contact information updated with USCIS to ensure you receive timely notifications about your rescheduled appointments.
- Canada Visa Applicants: visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website for updated information.
- UK Visa Applicants: visit the UK Visas and Immigration website for updated information.
If you have questions about how COVID-19 impacts your B-1 or B-2 Extension of Stay (EOS) or Change of Status (COS) application, feel free to call Herman Legal Group at 1 (216) 696-6170 or complete our contact form.
Staying updated with these guidelines is crucial as regulations can change based on public health advisories.
Remember, the processes surrounding the uscis interview reschedule can be complex and subject to change; staying informed and prepared is your best strategy.
Our team is here to provide assistance and guidance through these challenging times to ensure that your immigration matters are handled with the utmost care and attention.
