05/13/2021
The I-539 processing time of Family of H, L, E's might be normal for not having biometrics. It has been delayed very long.
USCIS Temporarily Suspends Biometrics Requirement for Certain Form I-539 Applicants
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that effective May 17, 2021, we will temporarily suspend the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, and E nonimmigrant status. USCIS will adjudicate these Form I-539 applications based on biographic information and related background checks but without capturing fingerprints and a photograph. This suspension will apply through May 17, 2023, subject to affirmative extension or revocation of the suspension period by the USCIS director.
Background
USCIS is experiencing a significant volume of pending cases related to Form I-539, which is particularly impacting H-4 (spouses and children of H-1Bs), L-2 (spouses and children of L-1s), and certain E nonimmigrants (dependents of E-1, E-2 and E-3 principal nonimmigrants), and their related Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Temporary closures and capacity limitations due to COVID-19 safety protocols created a significant volume of cases awaiting biometrics appointments at ASCs.
For more information on this temporary suspension, see our web alert. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Kind regards,
Public Engagement Division
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services