USCIS said that as early as May 17 it will no longer require H-4 and L-2 spousal visa applicants to submit biometric data as part of the process of renewing their status and work authorization. The decision is the latest development in a March suit filed against DHS Secretary Mayorkas in Seattle federal court, in which a group of H-4 and L-2 spousal visa holders allege the biometric requirement is unlawful and contributes to unreasonable delays. Though many other visa holders face the same requirement, the H-4 and L-2 visa holders argue the policy disproportionately targeted them and allege agency officials waive the requirements for other visa applicants, or prioritize other petitioners for biometric appointments. The change in policy will remain in effect for 24 months.
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posted on: May 7, 2021