USCIS Application Support Centers
By Brian in Citizenship & Naturalization | on 2024-03-25 16:38:35
Application Support Centers (ASCs) provide a platform for collecting biometric data after an applicant submits the relevant forms. The ASCs do not accept direct application filings.
Visa applicants can submit their biometrics for immigration benefits after booking an appointment. Usually, applicants receive notification of ASC appointment through their registered mail and should always wait until they receive the notice.
How Appointments at ASCs Work
As U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes your application, they may schedule an appointment at ASCs. If you receive a notification to attend the appointment, make it a priority.
If you miss the appointment, it can cause delays or the need to repeat specific steps. It could also affect your eligibility for benefits and result in the rejection of your application or petition.
If you can’t make it to an appointment, read the notification to find alternative instructions and options.
However, USCIS allows applicants to schedule or cancel their appointment if ill or experiencing symptoms of the following illnesses:
- Active tuberculosis (TB)
- Severe headaches
- Chickenpox
- Mumps
- A cold or the flu
- COVID-19
- Contagious diseases
The USCIS is willing to reschedule your appointment without any penalties.
Role of Application Support Centers(ASCs) in Citizenship Applications
Receive and Quickly Process Biometric Data
The limited number of USCIS offices makes it difficult for applicants to submit their biometric data. However, since each state has several ASCs, the applicants can easily access the service.
Similarly, each ASC handles a small number of biometric data applications compared to processing the data from USCIS offices. The ASCs centers invite applicants on an appointment basis, so you’ll only take a few minutes to submit the biometrics.
Reduced Processing Times
In addition to learning whether USCIS has approved your visa application, you must also brave a long wait time. In response to the needs of people, the USCIS has increased the number of ASCs to serve more applicants at a time.
The USCIS has equipped ASC centers with highly skilled workers to assist applicants with biometric submission, safeguarding data, submitting data to federal centers, and handling appointment needs.
Cost Savings for Applicants
The availability of ASCs in different locations countrywide reduces the burden on applicants. Instead of traveling to a single or a few biometrics collection points, applicants can find an ASC center nearby.
Consequently, the applicants save money they could have spent on bus fares, fuel, accommodation, meals, car rental, or flight charges.
Enhanced Applicant Experience
The applicant support centers have a direct link with the USCIS, making it easier for applicants to obtain more information about their applications. Since ASC is an extension of the federal center, they enjoy access to information concerning application progress.
Since many USCIS applications are submitted online, ASC centers create a human face to the application process. If applicants need help with their submission, they can find this assistance from an Austin immigration law firm.
The right immigration attorney can guide you through the visa and citizenship application process and address any concerns you may have.
