Do I need to pay a biometric fee?

Do not assume there will be a charge. The requirement for biometrics and the corresponding fee depend on the type of petition and the rules in effect, as defined by the USCIS. For the O-1, the collection of biometric data is not always part of the petition.

When biometrics are requested, the agency itself sends a notification with instructions about the location, date, and any applicable fees. In other words, you do not need to guess: the instructions arrive with the notice, and those are what you should follow.

Because fees and requirements can change over time, the safest approach is to verify information directly at the source rather than relying on amounts shared by third parties.

• Read the official form instructions carefully.
• Wait for the USCIS notification regarding any biometrics requirement.
• Confirm current fees only through official channels.

If in doubt, check the USCIS website or consult a qualified professional, and be cautious of any promises or charges that do not come from official sources.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.