All U.S. visa applicants aged between 14 and 79 are required to complete a biometric enrolment appointment.
Biometrics allow the U.S. government to verify your identity through fingerprints and a digital photograph before your visa is issued.
This guide outlines how to complete your U.S. visa biometric appointment in 2026 and what to expect at the Application Support Center (ASC) or U.S. Embassy.
What Is a Biometric Appointment?
The biometric appointment is a security step used to confirm your identity and check your background against U.S. government databases.
During this process, your fingerprints and a digital photo are collected, which are then linked to your DS-160 application.
When and Where Biometrics Are Collected
- Biometrics are collected after submitting your DS-160 form and paying your visa fee.
- You will be required to schedule an appointment at your local Application Support Center (ASC) or U.S. Embassy.
- Appointments are usually completed before your consular interview, although some applicants may do both on the same day depending on location.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
You must take the following documents to your biometric appointment:
- Your valid passport.
- DS-160 confirmation page (with barcode).
- Appointment confirmation letter.
- One recent U.S. visa-compliant photograph (in case the digital upload fails).
- Payment confirmation or receipt (if required by your local ASC).
Step-by-Step Biometric Enrolment Process
- Arrive at the ASC or U.S. Embassy at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
- Your documents and DS-160 barcode will be verified at the entrance.
- A digital photo will be taken (must comply with U.S. Visa Photo Requirements).
- All ten fingerprints will be scanned electronically using a digital scanner.
- You may be asked to verify your details before leaving.
What Happens After Biometrics?
Once your biometrics are collected:
- Your fingerprints and photo are sent to U.S. databases for background and identity verification.
- The system checks for any previous visa records, immigration violations, or alerts.
- If no issues are found, your application proceeds to the consular review or interview stage.
- Visa processing usually resumes within 2–7 business days following your appointment.
Special Circumstances
- Children under 14 and applicants over 79 are generally exempt from biometric enrolment.
- Repeat applicants who previously provided biometrics within the last 10 years may be eligible to reuse them if applying for the same visa class.
- Medical exemptions may apply if fingerprints cannot be taken due to injury or disability, subject to embassy discretion.
How Long Does the Biometric Appointment Take?
The biometric enrolment process is usually completed within 15–30 minutes.
You will not be interviewed during this appointment; the consular interview is held separately (unless scheduled on the same day).
Tips for a Smooth Appointment
- Ensure your hands are clean and free of cuts or ink before fingerprinting.
- Do not wear hats, sunglasses, or tinted glasses for your photo.
- Arrive early to allow time for security checks.
- Carry both physical and digital copies of your confirmation documents.
Related Guidance
- U.S. Visa Photo Requirements (2026)
- U.S. Visa Appointments (2026)
- U.S. Visa Processing Times (2026)
- How to Submit a U.S. Visa Application (2026)
People Also Asked
What happens at a U.S. visa biometric appointment?
Your fingerprints and photo are collected to verify your identity and perform background checks before your interview.
Can I skip biometrics for a U.S. visa?
No. Biometrics are mandatory for most applicants between 14 and 79 years old.
Can I reuse old U.S. visa biometrics?
Yes, if your last biometric data was collected within 10 years for the same visa class, re-use may be approved.
How long after biometrics will I get my visa?
Processing usually resumes within 2–7 business days, but times vary by location and background check results.
About This Page
Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: 29 January 2026.