Starting December 2009, USCIS started implementing changes on the way I-131 reentry permit applications are receipted and processed. Previously, I-131 reentry permit applications were filed directly at the Nebraska Service Center (NSC) which issued receipts and, where appropriate, issued expedited processing biometrics notices.
The NSC processing of expedited processing reentry permit biometrics allowed us to have the required biometrics scheduled often within 7-10 days after filing of the I-131 reentry permit application. This way we were able to accommodate clients who had a very limited period of stay in the U.S.
The New I-131 Reentry Permit Acceptance Procedure Delays Biometrics
Under the new procedure, all I-131 reentry permit applications are now filed at a USCIS lockbox. The purpose of the lockbox is to accept the application and do initial processing such as issuing a receipt. Following the initial processing, the case is transferred to the service center tasked with processing the reentry permits – NSC.
Only after the lockbox center forwards the I-131 reentry application to NSC the expedited processing biometrics appointment can be issed. This adds an additional week or so of processing and scheduling a biometrics notice.
In light of these changes, we have had to advise our I-131 reentry permit expedited processing clients to adjust their travel accordingly and to plan on being in the U.S. 3-4 weeks (up from 2-3 weeks) to be able to accommodate their required biometrics appointment while in the U.S.
Unfortunately, USCIS has indicated that they intend to use the lockbox for the future and we do not foresee any improvement in the processing times or the efficiency of the expedited reentry permit application procedure. USCIS has indicated that they are exploring ways to be able to process biometrics abroad; however, as of today, the biometrics can be done only in the U.S.