If I am a minor, do I have to do biometrics?

The U visa is an option created for victims of certain crimes who cooperate with authorities in the investigation and/or criminal proceedings in the United States. One of the steps in the application process involves scheduling a biometric data collection, which is essential for background checks and security procedures.

However, the rules regarding biometric collection may vary depending on the applicant’s age. Normally, USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) requires individuals aged 14 and older to attend a session for biometric data collection. Thus, if you are under 14 years old, you are generally excused from appearing in person for this stage of the procedure.

Despite this, it is very important that you carefully read any notification or letter received from USCIS, as it will contain specific instructions regarding your situation. In exceptional cases, guidelines may vary, and staying well informed is crucial to ensure that all steps of the U visa process are properly fulfilled.

Complying with United States immigration laws is essential, as well as seeking information from official sources and recognized, reliable agents or specialists, in order to avoid falling for scams or marketing campaigns that promise quick or guaranteed results. This way, you ensure that your rights and obligations are protected throughout the entire U visa application process.

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.