CASV: How Biometric Collection Works for the American Visa

The process of applying for a U.S. visa in Brazil involves a mandatory step that many applicants underestimate: the visit to the CASV, the Applicant Service Center. This center is responsible for collecting biometric data before the consular interview and, although the procedure is quick, preparation mistakes can cause delays or unnecessary complications. Understanding what happens at the CASV, which documents to bring, and what to avoid is essential for this step to go smoothly.

Role of the CASV

The CASV is the operational center where the U.S. Department of State collects the biometric data required for visa processing. The activities carried out include collecting fingerprints, taking the official photograph according to American standards, and basic document verification. This step takes place before the final interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy, when applicable.

It is important to understand that the CASV does not make any decisions regarding visa approval or denial. Its sole function is to collect biometric data and verify preliminary documentation. The final decision rests with the consular officer during the interview or, in the case of immigrant visas, with USCIS.

Locations in Brazil

In 2026, the CASV operates in five Brazilian cities. São Paulo is located at Avenida José Maria Whitaker, 370. Rio de Janeiro serves at Shopping Bossa Nova Mall, store SS101. Brasília operates at the International Airport, mezzanine. Recife is located at Paço Alfândega. Porto Alegre serves at Avenida Assis Brasil, 1712.

Appointments are made through the official U.S. visa service portal. Availability of time slots varies by city and seasonal demand, and it is recommended to schedule as far in advance as possible, especially during peak periods such as school vacation months.

Who Needs to Attend

The majority of nonimmigrant visa applicants must attend the CASV, including applicants for B-1/B-2 visas (tourism and business), F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange) and work visas such as H-1B, L-1, and O-1. Exceptions may apply to children below a certain age, seniors, and some visa renewals, but these waivers must be confirmed directly on the U.S. consulate website before scheduling.

What Happens During the Visit

The procedure at the CASV is quick and typically lasts between 10 and 15 minutes. The process follows a standardized sequence. Upon arrival, the applicant presents their passport and the DS-160 confirmation page for initial verification. Next, fingerprints of all fingers are collected using an electronic scanner. Finally, the official photograph is taken according to American standards, which require a white background, uncovered face, no glasses, hats, or accessories that cover parts of the face.

No interview is conducted at the CASV. The applicant will not be questioned about the purpose of the trip, financial situation, or ties to the country of origin. These questions are reserved for the subsequent consular interview.

Required Documents

For the CASV appointment, you must bring a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, and the appointment confirmation page. Previous visas in old passports should also be brought, if available, as they may be checked during verification.

It is equally important to know what not to bring. The CASV prohibits entry with electronic items such as smartwatches, tablets, and laptops. In some locations, cell phones are also prohibited. Food, drinks, and large bags are generally not allowed. Check the specific rules of the location where you will be attended to avoid having to leave belongings outside without a secure place for storage.

Common Mistakes

The most common mistakes at the CASV involve the DS-160 form. Filling out the form with incorrect or inconsistent information can cause serious problems at the next stage of the consular interview, as the officer will have access to all declared data. Incorrect dates of previous trips, inconsistent work history, and typos in names are recurring errors that should be reviewed before attending.

Dressing inappropriately for the official photo is another common mistake. Wearing glasses, caps, scarves, or accessories that cover parts of the face results in the need for a new photo and potential delay. Punctuality is equally critical: arriving late may mean losing your time slot and having to reschedule, which can impact your planned travel schedule.

Costs Involved

The nonimmigrant visa application fee, known as the MRV fee (Machine Readable Visa), for B-1/B-2 categories is US$185, the amount in effect since 2023. This fee is paid before scheduling and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application. The payment receipt remains valid for 365 days, allowing rescheduling within this period without a new payment.

In July 2025, the Visa Integrity and Border Security Fee of US$250 was approved as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This additional fee applies to virtually all nonimmigrant visa categories and will be charged at the time of visa issuance, not at application. As of April 2026, the Bureau of Consular Affairs has not yet published implementation guidelines, but it is expected to take effect before September 2026. When implemented, the total cost of a B-1/B-2 visa will increase from US$185 to US$435 per person.

After the CASV

With the biometric step completed, the next step is the consular interview, which may take place on the same day or at a later date, depending on the consulate and visa category. During the interview, the consular officer will have access to the biometric data collected at the CASV and will assess the application based on the documentation presented, the applicant’s answers, and the analysis of the DS-160 form.

Preparing properly for the consular interview is just as important as attending the CASV correctly. Biometric collection is an administrative formality, but the interview is the decisive moment when the consular officer determines whether the visa will be granted or denied based on Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which presumes immigrant intent until the applicant proves otherwise.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.