The biometric fee for a US visa is one of the most misunderstood parts of the application process. Many applicants assume biometrics is a separate charge in all cases, while others believe it is optional or reusable. In reality, whether a biometric fee applies—and how it is paid—depends on the visa type and filing method.
- What Is Visa Biometrics? (Quick Explanation)
- Biometric Fee US Visa — Overview (2026 Update)
- Fingerprint Fee USA by Visa Type
- Visa Biometrics Cost — Official Fee Breakdown
- When and How to Pay the Biometric Fee
- What Happens at the Biometric Appointment
- Documents Required for Biometrics Appointment
- Common Biometric Fee & Appointment Mistakes
- Are Visa Biometric Fees Refundable or Reusable?
- Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
- Final Guidance for Applicants Attending Biometrics
This 2026 guide explains the biometric fee US visa applicants should expect, including fingerprint costs, when biometrics is included in other fees, what happens at the appointment, and common mistakes that lead to delays. If you are scheduled for biometrics or preparing for a US visa application, this article will clarify exactly what you need to know.
What Is Visa Biometrics? (Quick Explanation)
Visa biometrics refers to the collection of biometric identifiers used to verify an applicant’s identity and conduct security checks. For US visas, biometrics typically includes:
- Fingerprints (usually all ten fingers)
- A digital photograph
- Basic biographic verification
Biometrics helps US authorities confirm identity, prevent fraud, and link an applicant to their immigration records across systems.
Depending on the application type, biometrics is collected either by the U.S. Department of State (for most visas issued at embassies) or USCIS (for applications filed inside the United States).
Biometric Fee US Visa — Overview (2026 Update)
The key question most applicants ask is simple:
Is the biometric fee charged separately for a US visa?
The answer depends on the visa type.
In summary
- For most non-immigrant visas (tourist, student, work):
👉 Biometrics is included in the visa application fee (MRV fee). - For immigrant visas and many USCIS filings:
👉 Biometrics may be charged separately or bundled into filing fees.
Understanding this distinction prevents overpayment and missed appointments.
Fingerprint Fee USA by Visa Type
Non-Immigrant Visa Biometrics (B1/B2, F1, H1B, etc.)
For most applicants applying outside the United States, biometrics is collected at a Visa Application Center (VAC) before the embassy interview.
Key points for 2026:
- There is no separate fingerprint fee for these visas
- The cost of biometrics is included in the MRV visa fee
- The VAC appointment itself is free once the MRV fee is paid
This applies to common visas such as:
- Tourist and business visas (B1/B2)
- Student visas (F1, M1)
- Work visas (H1B, L1, O1)
- Exchange visas (J1)
Applicants do not pay extra at the VAC for fingerprints or photos.
Immigrant Visa & Green Card Biometrics
For immigrant visas (including green cards), biometrics rules differ based on where you apply.
Adjustment of Status (Inside the US)
Applicants filing Form I-485 through USCIS may need to pay a biometrics fee, commonly:
- USD 85 (in many categories)
- Collected at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC)
In some cases, the biometrics fee is bundled with the main filing fee; in others, it appears as a separate charge depending on age and category.
Consular Processing (Outside the US)
Applicants attending immigrant visa interviews abroad typically have biometrics collected as part of the embassy process, with no separate payment at the VAC.
Employment Authorization & Other USCIS Filings
Certain USCIS applications require biometrics even when no visa is involved.
Examples include:
- Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
- Some extensions or status changes
- Special immigration benefits
In these cases:
- Biometrics may be charged separately
- Fees depend on the form and applicant age
- Appointments take place at a USCIS ASC
Applicants should always check the current form instructions before filing.
Visa Biometrics Cost — Official Fee Breakdown
| Application Type | Biometric Fee | Paid Separately |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist / Student Visa | Included in MRV | No |
| Work Visa (Non-Immigrant) | Included in MRV | No |
| Green Card (AOS) | ~USD 85 | Sometimes |
| USCIS Benefit Filings | Varies | Yes |
Important: Never pay a biometric fee unless the official instructions clearly require it.
When and How to Pay the Biometric Fee
For Embassy-Based Visa Applications
- Biometrics is covered by the visa application (MRV) fee
- Payment is made before scheduling appointments
- No payment is taken at the VAC
For USCIS Applications
- Biometrics fees are paid with the application filing
- Payment is made online or by check/money order
- USCIS schedules the biometrics appointment after receiving the fee
If the biometric fee is missing or incorrect, the application may be rejected or delayed.
What Happens at the Biometric Appointment
Applicants often worry about biometrics, but the process is straightforward.
Step-by-Step Experience
- Arrival and document verification
- Digital photograph capture
- Fingerprint scanning
- Confirmation of completion
What to Expect
- Appointment duration: 10–20 minutes
- No interview or questioning
- No results given on the spot
Biometrics is purely an identity and security procedure.
Documents Required for Biometrics Appointment
Applicants must carry the correct documents to avoid being turned away.
Commonly Required
- Passport (original)
- Appointment confirmation letter
- DS-160 confirmation (for embassy cases) or USCIS receipt notice
- Any additional instructions listed on the appointment notice
For a complete checklist, see:
https://www.usvisaintel.com/visa-process/documents-required-for-us-visa-complete-checklist-for-first-time-applicants/
Common Biometric Fee & Appointment Mistakes
Many delays occur due to avoidable errors, including:
- Assuming biometrics is optional
- Paying a fee that is already included
- Missing the biometrics appointment
- Bringing incorrect or expired documents
- Attempting to reuse old biometrics without authorization
Missed appointments usually require rescheduling, which can delay the visa process by weeks.
Are Visa Biometric Fees Refundable or Reusable?
Refundability
- Biometric fees are non-refundable
- Fees are not returned if a visa is refused or withdrawn
Reusability
- Biometrics is generally not reusable for new applications
- USCIS may reuse biometrics in limited cases, but this is discretionary
- Applicants should assume a new biometrics appointment is required unless informed otherwise
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Is biometric fee included in US visa fee?
Yes, for most non-immigrant visas, biometrics is included in the MRV fee.
How much is the fingerprint fee for US visa?
There is no separate fingerprint fee for most embassy-based visas. USCIS biometrics may cost around USD 85.
Do children pay biometric fees?
Children under certain ages are often exempt, depending on the application type.
Can biometrics be reused for another visa?
Generally no. Each application typically requires fresh biometrics.
What happens if I miss my biometrics appointment?
You must reschedule, which can delay your case.
Final Guidance for Applicants Attending Biometrics
Understanding the biometric fee US visa applicants encounter is essential for a smooth application process. In 2026, most visa applicants do not pay a separate fingerprint fee, while USCIS-based filings may still require one. Verifying requirements, paying only official fees, and attending the appointment with correct documents will help avoid unnecessary delays.
For a complete overview of all US visa fees and how biometrics fits into the total cost, refer to:
https://www.usvisaintel.com/visa-fees/us-visa-fees-explained-all-categories-complete-cost-breakdown-for-first-time-applicants/
Applicants who approach biometrics with accurate information and proper preparation are far better positioned for a successful outcome.
