A biometrics appointment is a routine step of the green card application process that helps check if applicants have relevant immigration violations or a serious criminal record. During the appointment, the U.S. government will take fingerprints, pictures, and signature of the applicant. This information is used to run a background check and for identification purposes. The appointment is usually scheduled by USCIS and takes place at a local Application Support Center (ASC). The appointment itself takes most people 15 to 30 minutes. Applicants who are in the United States will attend their biometrics appointment at a local USCIS office, relatively early in the green card application process. The appointment is not the same thing as a visa or green card interview. The biometrics appointment is all about ensuring that the person applying for a green card does not have a serious criminal record or any relevant prior immigration violations. If you are unable to attend your scheduled biometric services appointment for good cause, you may request to reschedule your appointment through your USCIS online account or by calling the USCIS Contact Center.