USCIS To Exempt Biometric Fees for All Form I-539 Applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that beginning October 1, 2023, it will no longer require the $85 biometrics service fee for individuals who file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. This application is required for spouses of employment-based nonimmigrants requesting an extension or change of their nonimmigrant status in the U.S.

After October 1, most applicants who file Form I-539 will not be scheduled to attend a biometric services appointment.  However, should USCIS determine that biometrics are required, applicants will receive a notice in the mail scheduling an appointment.

Applicants who mistakenly submit the $85 biometrics service fee will have their Form I-539 rejected if the payment is combined in one check with the paper-based Form I-539 filing fee.  USCIS will return mistakenly submitted biometric services fees that are submitted separately from the Form I-539 fee. USCIS will only charge the application fee for credit card payments and omit the biometrics fees.