Chapter_6_(I-90_Processing).pdf

ASC Standard Operating Procedures

Chapter 6: Benefit Procedure – I-90 Processing

Chapter 6

Benefit Procedure – I-90 Processing

2015 Edition June 2015 6 - 1

Introduction: This chapter provides standardized operating procedures at Application Support Centers (ASCs) to ensure consistent processing of I-90 applicants. The procedures are divided into four (4) phases:

1. Applicant preparation and processing;

2. ASC ISO I-90 review, resolution or forwarding to the local resolution office for irresolvable identity issues, if needed;

3. Biometrics capture; and

4. Application of an extension sticker.

NOTE: I-90 applicants will be processed the same as any other USCIS benefit applicant, receiving a waiting-room number, having their biometrics captured, and then directed to the extension-sticker location within the ASC for the application of the extension sticker.

Background: While I-90 processing has moved through various service centers over the years, the adjudicative decision resides with the National Benefit Center (NBC). ASCs will receive most of their I-90 applicants with an IOE receipt prefix after being receipted through ELIS, but some may have other service center numbers. ASCs will use these procedures to process all I-90 appointment notices.

6 - 2

Table of Sections

Section 6.A: Operational Policies & Procedures

• Operational Guidance o Quality Assurance o Turning Applicants Away o Data Changes

• Database Check

• Biometrics Processing

• Application (Receipt) Numbers

• Attestation Procedures

• Application of an Extension Sticker

Section 6.B: I-90 Procedures

• General

• I-90 by the Guard

• I-90 by the Receptionist

• I-90 by the BT

• Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics

• Application of an Extension Sticker

• Referrals to ASC ISO

Section 6.C: ASC ISO I-90 Procedures

• General

• Operational Guidance o Identity Issues

Section 6.C.1: ASC ISO I-90 Referral Processing

Section 6.C.2: ASC ISO ELIS Referral Processing

Attachments

A – Sample I-90 Appointment Notices

A-1 ELIS I-90 Appointment Notice A-2 NBC I-90 Appointment Notice

B – Sample I-90 Receipt Notice

C – LFO Resolution Referral Sheet

D – Attestation Language Sample (English & Spanish)

6.A - 1

Section 6.A: Operational Policies & Procedures

Operational Guidance: Prior to granting an I-90 benefit, USCIS must confirm that the benefit applicant is entitled to the renewal of her/his benefit status. ASCs will verify identity and if necessary, provide status to ELIS or the NBC if the applicant is referred to the local USCIS office for identity-issue resolution. The NBC will review various U.S. government databases to confirm no derogatory information exists for the applicant, make an adjudicative decision, and, when warranted, approve renewal card production.

If the Biometrics Technician (BT) discovers an identity issue and the ASC ISO cannot resolve it, the applicant must be referred to the Local Field Office (LFO). The I-90 applicant will NOT have her/his biometrics captured, and ASC ISO will annotate through Interim Case Management System (ICMS) that the applicant has been referred to the LFO. No extension sticker will be applied to the I-551 card of the referred I-90 applicant.

If an I-90 applicant has no identity issues, the BT will completely process the applicant on the day of her/his appointment: identity verified; biometrics captured (usually Code-3); and extension sticker issued (if required).

Note: ASCs will NOT make any data changes for I-90 applicants. If the applicant presents identification with a different name than on the appointment notice, that name will be entered as an alias, the same as any other benefit.

Those applicants who have no issues or whose issues were resolved by the ISO will be completely processed on the day of their appearance at the ASC.

Conditional residents may file to update information on their card or to replace a lost card.

Conditional resident cannot renew their expiring card. Conditional residents will be processed according to the code on their appointment notice. No extension sticker will be adhered to a conditional I-551 card.

Quality Assurance: In order to ensure the integrity and maintain quality control of the process, the ASC ISO will complete a review of 100% of the I-90 applicants for which an identity issue has been raised. When the BT or Site Supervisor (SS) has referred an I-90 applicant to the ASC ISO for identity issues and the ASC ISO has been able to resolve the issue(s), the ASC ISO will note her/his review and resolution by completing the “Identity” line on the AIW with her/his name and date.

Turning Applicants Away: If an applicant appears without an appointment and/or receipt notice(s), the ASC ISO shall attempt to verify the existence of an I-90 appointment by checking NASS or other USCIS systems, and if necessary, reprinting a NASS notice. If confirmation of the applicant’s receipt number cannot be made, the applicant shall be asked to return with her/his appointment notice.

6.A - 2

If an applicant appears at an ASC on a date/time other than her/his scheduled appointment date/time and processing can be accomplished without inconveniencing other scheduled applicants, the applicant will be processed.

Only the ASC ISO has the authority to decline processing an applicant.

Data Changes: If an I-90 applicant informs the BT or ASC ISO that her/his demographic data has changed since filing the I-90 application, that applicant should be directed to send a letter that contains her/his I-90 receipt number and supporting documentation for this (these) demographic data change(s) to:

USCIS National Benefits Center P.O. Box 25920 Overland Park, KS 66225

The applicant will still be processed using the data that appears on the I-90 appointment notice.

Database Check: Only the ASC ISOs will access and update, as necessary, the following USCIS system for I-90 applications, when circumstances dictate:

Interim Case Management Solution (ICMS) Portal for I-90 processing in Computer-Linked Application Information Management System - 3 Local Area Network (CLAIMS - 3 LAN):

The ICMS is a specially designed software application that allows authorized users access into the Missouri Service Center’s CLAIMS-3. The systems are USCIS proprietary databases that permit query and retrieval of various information, to include the benefits for which an applicant has applied. ICMS provides a view of an electronic version of the I-90 application that the applicant submitted. Queries are performed using the applicant’s receipt number, although the A-number can also be used. ICMS is used to provide status of those applications that are referred to the LFO awaiting an identity resolution.

Biometrics Processing: Only “cleared” I-90 applicants – those without unresolved issues – will have their biometrics captured. Most applicants will require a Code - 3 biometrics capture. However, if the applicant is under 12 years and nine months of age at time of filing, or 80 years and older, s/he will only have Code - 2 biometrics captured, i.e., press-print, photograph, and signature.

Application (Receipt) Numbers: Any I-90 applicant will be processed in accordance with this chapter. Most I-90 applicants will appear with either an ELIS or a NBC application number (see Attachment 6 – A-1 & -2 for sample ELIS (IOE) and NBC (MSC) appointment notices). Some I-90 applicants may have I-797s – Appointment Notices, with ESC, LIN, WAC, etc., application number prefixes. They will be processed as a normal code - 1, code - 2, or code - 3 as indicated on their I-797 using these procedures.

6.A - 3

Anticipated Rejects: If an I-90 applicant is anticipated to be unclassifiable, and the ASC opts to ink-print the applicant for a possible second submission, the biometrics technician must record the IOE-based receipt number on the manual card. When/if the card is scanned in later (after confirming the electronic version was indeed rejected – first-time reject), the IOE receipt number must be included in the non-mandatory field as displayed on the Applicant II page of the Code 1 Cardscan option. This will ensure ELIS receives the second fingerprint result and does not reschedule the applicant.

Attestation Procedures: All I-90 applicants will have a paragraph on their appointment notice informing them that they will be asked to attest that the information provided during their application-filing process is accurate and truthful. (See Attachment 6 – A-1, ELIS (and MSC) I- 90 Appointment Notice for a sample of the attestation language.) While appearing in English on the appointment notice, when the signature portion of the biometric capture for I-90 applicants is activated, two (2) paragraphs will appear on the signature screen, one in English and the other in Spanish (see Attachment 6 – D.) The applicants have the right to read the paragraphs. Then they will be asked to sign their signature, thus attesting to the truthfulness of their application entries.

Some applicants, however, may refuse to sign because we have not been allowed to correct certain data, i.e., maiden name to married name, wrong dates of birth, etc. If an applicant refuses to sign or cannot sign due to physical limitations, the following guidance has been directed by USCIS’s Office of Chief Counsel:

1. A signature may be waived if the applicant is unable to sign, has no hands, or has a medical condition that prevents signature.

2. If a person refuses to sign, the Biometric Technician shall request assistance from the ISO to address any concerns.

3. If a person has questions regarding attestation, and where operationally feasible to do so, hold the transaction and request assistance from the ISO.

4. If a person still refuses to sign, cancel the transaction and refer to the ISO for rescheduling.

5. Document “Refused to Sign” on the AIW for billing reconciliation.

Application of an Extension Sticker: Unless an I-90 applicant’s I-551 card does not expire for greater than nine (9) months from the date of her/his appearance at the ASC, a nine-month extension sticker will be applied to the back of the applicant’s I-551 card.

6.B - 1

Section 6.B: I-90 Procedures

General: I-90 Procedures are those processes a guard, receptionist, BT, SS, and/or ASC ISO would complete for I-90 applicants. If issues are discovered during these procedures, the individual processing the applicant will refer the applicant to the ASC ISO for resolution. The ASC ISOs will follow the procedures in Section 6.C – ASC ISO I-90 Procedures to attempt to resolve the issues.

List of I-90 Procedures

I-90 by the Guard I-90 by the Receptionist I-90 by the BT Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics Application of an Extension Sticker

6.B - 2

I-90 by the Guard

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used by the guard or person acting as the guard in processing I-90 applicants.

When to Use This Procedure: This procedure will only be used on I-90 applicants. It is used in the initial processing of an I-90 applicant.

Who Performs This Procedure: Usually the person performing guard’s duties.

Initial Applicant Processing by the Guard Step Action

1 In addition to the Guard Processing described in Chapter 2, Section 2.C.2, the guard will complete the following steps for all I-90 applicants.

2 In addition to the Applicant Information Worksheet (AIW), the guard will also provide the applicant a copy of the Attestation Language (See Attachment 6 –D) for her/him to read prior to receptionist processing.

3 Instruct the applicant to complete the AIW and read the Attestation Language in the waiting area and to proceed to the receptionist after s/he has completed the AIW for further processing.

6.B - 3

I-90 by the Receptionist

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used by the receptionist in processing I-90 applicants.

When to Use This Procedure: This procedure will only be used for I-90 applicants. It is used in the initial processing of an I-90 applicant after the applicant has completed her/his AIW.

Who Performs This Procedure: Usually the person performing the receptionist’ duties.

I-90 by the Receptionist

1 In addition to the Receptionist Processing described in Chapter 2, Section 2.C.2, the receptionist will complete the following steps for I-90 applicants.

2 Request the applicant’s:

A. Appointment Notice. If the applicant does not have an I-90 appointment notice (Attachment 6 – A), ask if they have a receipt notice (Attachment 6 – B).

B. Government-issued Photo Identification.

1) For Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed I-551: The applicant must have government-issued photo identification. Passports are acceptable. If the applicant has no government-issued photo identification, refer her/him to the ASC ISO.

2) Form I-90 to Reflect Automatic Conversion to Permanent Resident Status. The required identification is government-issued photo identification. Passports are acceptable.

3) For all other reasons: The required ID is the expired/expiring Form I-551 (upon which to place an extension sticker, if applicable).

Note: If there is any question about the validity of a photo ID, refer the applicant to the ASC ISO. Expired government-issued photo identification is acceptable as long as a positive identification can be made.

3 Verify the applicant’s identity by comparing the government-issued photo identification to the applicant. Compare facial type, bone structure, skin color and texture, ear size, neck size, eye color and size, nose size, mouth shape, forehead size, and lip size and shape. If the photo identification does not match the applicant’s

6.B - 4

I-90 by the Receptionist physical characteristics, inform the ASC ISO.

4 Determine the applicant’s age by subtracting the applicant’s DOB on the front of the Form I-551 (or the government-issued photo identification presented by the applicant) from today’s date. If the applicant is under the age of 12 years and nine months, mark Code-2 and I-90 on the AIW. Otherwise, mark the code that is on the I-797 on the AIW.

5 Record any aliases that the applicant has used in the past on the AIW (to be used for biometrics processing).

5 Ask the I-90 applicant if s/he concurs with the Attestation Language handout that the guard provided her/him. If the applicant concurs, skip to Step 7 below. If not, proceed to Step 6.

6 If the applicant does not concur, refer the applicant to the ASC-ISO for further processing. Mark the AIW with the reason for referral as Attestation issue. Return the applicant’s appointment and/or receipt notice(s), photo ID, and AIW marked with the reason for referral. Have the applicant sit in the ASC ISO referral seats.

7 Return the applicant’s appointment and/or receipt notice(s), photo ID, and completed AIW. Give the applicant the next customer call number and direct her/him to the applicant waiting area.

Note: If an applicant arrives at the ASC without an appointment notice and/or receipt notice, ASC ISO shall use the information on the AIW to search CLAIMS Mainframe to obtain a receipt number. Once a receipt number for I-90 benefit has been determined and if the applicant has the required photo ID, s/he can be processed. If the ASC ISO cannot determine a receipt number, the applicant shall not be processed and must be turned-away.

6.B - 5

I-90 Processing by the BT

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used by the biometrics technician (BT) in processing I-90 applicants.

When to Use This Procedure: This procedure will only be used on ELIS and/or NBC I-90 applicants appearing at an ASC for processing.

Who Performs This Procedure: Usually the BT.

I-90 Processing by the BT

1 I-90 applicants will be processed exactly the same as any other biometrics applicants, except they will have an extension sticker applied AFTER they have their biometrics are captured. Therefore, they will NOT have any special numbers other than the sequence number they received at the receptionist’s desk.

2 Take the applicant’s appointment notice, government-issued photo identification, AIW, and the customer call number. Ensure the applicant is seeking Form I-90 services.

3 A. Appointment Notice. If the applicant does not have a Form I-90 appointment notice (Attachment 6 – A, 1 & 2), ask for the receipt notice (Attachment 6 – B).

B. Government-issued Photo Identification.

1) For Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed Form I-551: The applicant must have government-issued photo identification. Passports are acceptable. If the applicant has no government-issued photo identification, refer her/him to the

ASC ISO.

2) Form I-90 to Reflect Automatic Conversion to Permanent Resident Status.

The required identification is government-issued photo identification.

Passports are acceptable.

3) For all other reasons: The required ID is the expired/expiring Form I-551 (upon which to place an extension sticker if applicable).

Verify the applicant’s identity by comparing the government-issued photo identification to the applicant. Expired government-issued photo identification is acceptable as long as a positive identification can be made.

6.B - 6

I-90 Processing by the BT Step Action

4 Using the appointment and/or receipt notice(s), review the AIW. Verify the applicant’s receipt number, A-number, name, and DOB.

5 Determine the applicant’s age. Subtract the date of birth (DOB) from the date of processing at the ASC. If an applicant is under 12 years and nine months of age, ensure Code - 2 is marked on the AIW. If not, correct the AIW and process as a Code-2. If the applicant is 80 years or older, ensure Code - 2 is marked on the AIW.

If not, correct the AIW and process as a Code-2. For all others, process per the code on the appointment notice (usually a Code-3).

6 Verify identity.

A. If the applicant has her/his existing I-551 card with which identity has been confirmed, there is no identity issue. The BT will fill in the verified date and employee number on the “Identity” line of the AIW. Go to “Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics”.

B. If the applicant does not have an existing I-551 card, the BT verifies identity using the applicant’s provided government issued identification. If there is no identity issue, the BT will complete the verified date and employee number on the “Identity” line of the AIW. Go to “Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics”.

C. If there is an identity issue, the BT will refer the applicant to ASC ISO for resolution and WILL NOT complete the verified date and employee number on the “Identity” line of the AIW.

If the ASC ISO resolves the identity issue, the ASC ISO will fill in the verified date and employee number on the “Identity” line of the AIW and give the paperwork back to the BT. Go to “Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics”.

If the ASC ISO cannot resolve the issue, the ASC ISO will refer the I-90 applicant to the local field office (LFO) for resolution, following the procedures in Section 6.C – ASC ISO I-90 Procedures. The ASC ISO will dismiss the applicant.

6.B - 7

General Procedure Description: This phase is used in capturing an I-90 applicant’s biometrics.

When to Use This Procedure: Those I-90 applicants not referred to the LFO will have their Code - 1, Code - 2, or Code - 3 biometrics captured.

Who Performs This Procedure: A BT, SS, or ASC ISO may complete this phase. Refer to the ASC SOP, Chapters 3, 4, or 5 for procedures on capturing the appropriate biometrics.

1 Follow the procedures in ASC SOP, Chapters 3, 4, or 5 for capturing the appropriate biometrics.

2 During the I-90 signature process, the biometrics capture systems will display a screen containing an “Attestation Statement” in which the applicant is swearing that the information submitted on her/his application is true (See Attachment 6.D – Attestation Language Sample [English and Spanish]. The English version was printed on the applicant’s appointment notice and should have been read prior to processing.) When the applicant signs the signature pad, s/he is agreeing with the statement.

Should an applicant refuse to sign or physically cannot sign, follow this guidance as directed by USCIS’s Office of Chief Counsel:

A. A signature may be waived if the applicant is unable to sign, has no hands, or has a medical condition that prevents signature.

B. If a person refuses to sign, the Biometric Technician shall request assistance from the ISO to address any concerns.

C. Cancel biometric collection/submission. Biometrics will not be submitted;

D. Denote “Refused to Sign Attestation” on the AIW for the ASC contractor to request payment for the unsubmitted transaction;

E. Annotate in ELIS comments why biometrics not collected (Refuse to Sign);

F. “Deactivate” applicant in NASS to prevent further scheduling; and G. Provide referral information for the applicant depending on the applicant concern.

3 Upon completion of the biometrics capture and if appropriate, the BT will inform the applicant that s/he will now have to have an extension sticker applied to her/his

6.B - 8

Capturing the I-90 Applicant’s Biometrics Step Action current I-90 card (I-551). The purpose of the extension sticker is to continue the validity of the card’s use until the applicant’s new card is approved and mailed to the applicant.

4 The BT completes the For Official Use section of the AIW and returns the customer call number, the ID, and appointment notice to the applicant.

5 Instruct the applicant to sit in the I-90 extension sticker seating area and wait for her/his number to be called again.

6 BT places the applicant’s AIW in the designated secured location in the I-90 extension sticker area.

6.B - 9

Application of an Extension Sticker

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used to apply an extension sticker to an applicant’s expired/expiring Form I-551 which extends the existing card’s validity for a specified time per current USCIS guidance beyond the applicant’s processing date. Extension stickers will not be put on mutilated cards, conditional cards, or old (I-151) cards. (See notes below for mutilated cards.)

When to Use This Procedure: This procedure will only be used for I-90 applicant whose biometrics were taken and whose I-551 card expires within nine (9) months or whose I-551 card has already expired.

Who Performs This Procedure: Either the person performing the I-90 process (the BT) or a designated biometrics technician applies an extension sticker; but the SS or ASC ISO may also apply the sticker.

Applying an Extension Sticker

1 For those applicants with either an expiring or expired Form I-551, the following guidance will be used to determine the exact date to be punched through the extension sticker before applying the sticker to the back of the card (Do not punch any holes in any cards.):

A. For expired Form I-551 cards: Add nine (9) months to the date of the applicant’s processing at the ASC, punch that month and year through a sticker, and apply to the back of the card. For example, if an applicant appears at the ASC for processing on 17 April 2015 and her/his Form I-551 is expired, say March 2015, the BT would add nine months to the processing date, 17 January 2016. The BT would punch a hole in January and in 2016 on the sticker, and then apply it to the expired card. The card is now extended for nine months from the processing date.

B. For Form I-551 cards expiring in less than nine months from the processing date: Determine if the expiration date is less than nine months from the applicant’s processing date. If the card does expire within nine months, add nine months to the processing date and punch a sticker with that month and year. Apply the sticker to the back of the card. The card has now been extended until nine months from the applicant’s processing date. For example, if an applicant appears at the ASC for processing on 20 April 2015 and her/his Form I-551 expires on 15 December 2015, add nine months to the date of processing, i.e., 20 January 2016. Punch holes through January

6.B - 10

Applying an Extension Sticker Step Action and 2016 on the sticker, and then apply it to the card. The card has now been extended through January 2016.

C. For Form I-551 cards expiring nine months or more from the processing date. Add nine months to the applicant’s processing date. If that date occurs prior to the expiration date on the Form I-551, DO NOT apply an extension sticker. For example, if an applicant is processed on 12 April 2015 and her/his card does not expire until 15 February 2016, then no renewal sticker will be applied. Adding nine months to the processing date makes it 12 January 2016. No sticker is required.

Note: Normally the ASCs will not see applicants with more than nine months on their current Form I-551. The processing service center is supposed to return I-90 renewal applications with more than nine months on their current card.

2 If an extension sticker is not required, go to Step 9 below. Otherwise, go to Step 3 below.

3 For cards needing an extension sticker, place applicant’s Form I-551 face down on the BT’s workstation desktop.

4 Using the next serialized renewal sticker and a 1/8th-inch hole-punch, punch holes through the sticker marking the appropriate month and year of expiration.

5 Peel the serialized sticker from the sticker roll.

6 Place and secure the hole-punched serialized sticker on the upper (top) back middle section of the applicant’s expired/expiring Form I-551.

7 Proceed to complete the required sticker information into ESI (using the procedures detailed in the ASC SOP Chapter 2).

8 If an extension sticker was issued, write the sticker number on the “Extension Sticker Number Issued:” line on the AIW and enter the BT’s employee number.

This information will be used to crosscheck sticker reconciliation totals if needed.

9 Return the applicant’s ID and appointment notice. Retain the AIW for daily reconciliations and store per procedures.

6.B - 11

Applying an Extension Sticker Step Action 10 Ensure the applicant is provided a customer comment card duly annotated as an

I-90 applicant prior to completing the process.

Notes:

1. If the extension sticker is damaged, i.e., ripped, torn, or mutilated, place the salvaged portion on a 3” x 5” index card and record the serial number at the bottom of the card in black ink. Store the index card with any remaining non-issued stickers for reconciliation at the end of the day. Complete the Sticker Discrepancy Report in the CPMS-ESI system.

2. If the hole is punched accidentally through the wrong month and/or year, consider the sticker damaged and follow the procedures in step 1 above. On the next serialized sticker, punch the holes in the correct month and year and apply to back of the I-551 card.

Ensure the correct sticker number is documented in CPMS-ESI system.

3. For MUTILATED CARDS: DO NOT apply an extension sticker on mutilated cards. If the applicant needs a valid I-551 card for travel or other reasons prior to receipt of a new card, the ASC ISO needs to refer the applicant to the local field office in order to obtain temporary evidence of legal permanent residence.

6.C - 1

Section 6.C: ASC ISO I-90 Processing

General: The section describes the ASC ISO’s processes to review, resolve, approve, or forward to the local field office for resolution of identity issues discovered during the ASC’s processing of I-90 applicants. If the ASC ISO can resolve an I-90 applicant identity issue, s/he approves it by completing the AIW and returning the applicant to the BT for further processing.

For irresolvable identity issues, if the applicant has an NBC (MSC) appointment notice, the ASC ISO must follow the procedures in Section 6.C.1 by completing a “Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet” and then updating NBC’s ICMS/CLAIMS-3 status prior to forwarding to the local field office for resolution. If the applicant has an ELIS (IEO) appointment notice, then the ASC ISO must follow the procedures in Section 6.C.2. Otherwise, no further notification procedure is required.

ASC ISOs will be able to access ELIS2 in order to review an applicant’s record, confirm that the record matches, and also update Local Field Office (LFO) referrals as needed.

When to Use This Procedure: When a BT has referred an I-90 applicant with an identity issue.

Who Performs This Procedure: The ASC ISO.

ASC ISO Database Reviews: In addition to the ICMS/CLAIMS-3 database, ASC ISO has access to other USCIS databases to which s/he can refer to resolve issues. Some of those additional databases are:

CPMS: Customer Profile Management System (CPMS) [CPMS replaced ISRS – Image Storage and Retrieval System] is used as a secondary means to confirm the identity of the individual applicant at the ASC. The primary means is the individual customer (applicant) at the ASC and the government-issued photo ID that s/he presents. CPMS is a web-based system that permits an on-line immediate query and retrieval of biometric image sets and associated biographical data. Each biometric image set pertains to a specific individual and consists of a photograph, press-print, and signature used to produce an identity document issued by USCIS.

The system is available via the Intranet and has a database of over 30 million biometric image sets. Data fields include the alien registration number, receipt number, applicant's name, date of birth (DOB), and card serial number.

Note: CPMS might not contain information on an applicant. If the applicant is filing to get a new Permanent Resident Card because they have an old “Green Card”, a copy of the old card may not be in the CPMS database. CPMS checks are a secondary means to determine identity.

If the ASC ISO cannot resolve the issue, then a Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet must be completed, and the I-90 applicant packet forwarded to the local field office. If there is

6.C - 2 no data in CPMS on the applicant, this fact alone should not be used to refer a customer for resolution. If the ASC ISO is confident the individual and the government-issued photo ID match, then this is considered sufficient identity verification.

Central Index System (CIS): ASC ISOs have access to CIS and screen 9101 to gather a variety of information. CIS can also be used to verify that the I-90 applicant has been issued an I-551 in the past.

Operational Guidance:

The following describes some of the issues that might be referred to the ASC ISO in the course of processing I-90 applications. While the primary issue will be identity, not all issues will have been addressed. In those instances where this SOP does not provide instructions on how to proceed, the ASC ISO must use her/his best judgment and years of experience. ASC ISOs should discuss any questionable issues with the local field office. If the issues are sufficiently numerous or contentious, send remarks or questions to the Regional ASC POC who will provide additional guidance including forwarding resolution recommendations to USCIS, Biometrics Division if necessary.

The ASC Program is not resourced to handle adjudications. Therefore, if an I-90 application issue cannot be readily resolved, the ASC ISO will forward the application to the local field office.

List of I-90 ASC ISO Processing Procedures

Identity Issues Attestation Issues ICMS Update – Referral to the LFO

6.C - 3

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used to resolve and process those I-90 applicants who have identity issues.

When to Use This Procedure: When an I-90 applicant appears at the ASC whose identity cannot be confirmed by the government-issued photographic identification document(s) that the I-90 applicant provides.

Who Performs This Procedure: The ASC ISO will complete the actions in this procedure.

1 Review CPMS to see the cards that have been issued to the applicant. Remember the primary purpose of the CPMS check is secondary confirmation as to the identity of the applicant.

2 If the ASC ISO can confirm the identity of the applicant, the s/he will note her/his authorization of the process by completing the “Identity” line with date verified and initials on the employee # line on the AIW. Return the I-90 applicant to the BT for further processing.

3 If the ASC ISO cannot confirm the applicant’s identity through CPMS and still has an issue about the applicant’s identity, do not complete the “Identity” line on the AIW. Complete a Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet (Attachment 6 – C), and forward to the local field office for resolution.

Inform the applicant that s/he cannot be processed at this time and that a new appointment will be soon be issued.

Depending on the receipt prefix on the appointment notice (MSC or IOE), proceed to the appropriate section to update the proper database – either CPMS or ELIS.

6.C - 4

General Procedure Description: This procedure is used to resolve and process those I-90 applicants who have attestation issues.

When to Use This Procedure: When an I-90 applicant appears at the ASC who refuses to sign the Attestation Language.

Who Performs This Procedure: The ASC ISO will complete the actions in this procedure.

1 Since most applicants who refuse signing the Attestation Language do so because the data as depicted during the I-90 biometrics processing does not reflect the data the applicant believes to be true, the ASC-ISO should review CIS records of that applicant.

2 Confirm what data the applicant believes needs to be changed and what exists in CIS. If an applicant’s demographics have changed since her/his last issued I-90 card, inform the applicant of the process to notify officially USCIS of the change(s).

Explain that until such notification is made, the data on file is the data that must be used. If the person understands that, s/he may agree to the Attestation Language. If s/he does agree, mark that the Attestation issue on the AIW has been resolved and refer her/him to the receptionist, if that is who referred the applicant to the ASC- ISO, or back to the BT to complete the I-90 processing if that is who referred the applicant to the ASC-ISO.

3 If the applicant indicates that race or country of birth/citizenship values are different than those s/he provided on the application, inform the applicant that the values changed only for fingerprint processing compatibilities, and that the values provided on her/his application will remain as originally provided.

4 If, however, upon further discussion, the applicant still refuses to sign the Attestation Language, then inform the applicant that s/he will have to resolve the issue(s) with the USCIS Field Office by getting an Info Pass appointment. Tell the applicant that after resolution, s/he will be rescheduled for her/his I-90 processing.

Until the applicant has completed the I-90 processing, s/he will not be granted a renewed I-551 card.

6.C - 5

5 If the applicant was referred by the receptionist, give the applicant her/his appointment notice and ID card(s) and dismiss her/him. Be sure to retain the AIW.

If the applicant was referred by the BT, inform the BT to cancel the record and record “Refused to Sign” on the AIW. Assure the applicant’s ID card(s) and appointment notice are returned to the applicant. Dismiss the applicant reminding her/him to schedule an Info Pass appointment with the field office.

6 Follow the Referral Processing procedures in the appropriate following section.

6.C.1 - 1

Section 6.C.1: ASC ISO NBC I-90 Referral Processing

General: The section describes the ASC ISO’s procedures to forward to the local field office for resolution identity issues discovered during the ASC’s processing of NBC I-90 applicants.

ICMS Update

General Procedure Description: These procedures are used to update the application history in ICMS for those NBC I-90 applicants with MSC receipt number prefixes for which the ASC ISO has referred to the local field office (LFO).

When to Use This Procedure: Any time a NBC I-90 applicant is referred to the LFO for identity issues.

Who Performs This Procedure: The ASC ISO will complete this process.

Note: The ICMS User’s Manual / Training Guide is available on the USCIS intranet. See ASC SOP Chapter One, Attachment H, for the current intranet address.

I-90 ICMS/CLAIMS - 3 LAN Update

1 On the ASC ISO’s computer, go to ICMS Application Login Screen at the intranet web address listed in the ASC SOP, Chapter One, Attachment H, or use a “desktop icon” to get to the login screen.

A. On the ICMS web page, enter your ICMS user identification name in the “User Identification” field. Enter your ICMS password in the “User Password” field. And then hit the enter key to proceed. This will bring up the “Case Query” screen.

B. On the “Case Query” screen, enter the applicant’s receipt number (three letters and 10 numbers), e.g., MSC0123456789, in the “Receipt Number” field. Note: The receipt number must start with “MSC” followed by 10 numbers without dashes. If the receipt number is not available, you may enter the applicant’s A-number. Press enter to bring up the “Case Query Results” screen.

C. The “Case Query Results” screen will display the receipt number and name of the applicant. Confirm that this is the correct information for the I-90 applicant.

6.C.1 - 2

I-90 ICMS/CLAIMS - 3 LAN Update

2 After the ASC ISO has determined that an I-90 applicant cannot be processed at the ASC on the day of her/his appearance, the ASC ISO will fill out the “Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet” (Attachment 6 – C) then provide a status update to the NBC using the ICMS Status Update in Step 3 below.

3 On the Form I-90 / I-89 screen in the actions bar below the ICMS header, find the “Additional Actions” tab. In the pull-down menu, click on the “Referred” option.

In the options menu, click on “From ASC to Field Office” option

Where to find in ICMS: ADDITIONAL ACTIONS Menu – Referred - From ASC to Field Office

4 Complete the “ICMS Updated” line on the AIW. Do not print the ICMS/CLAIMS-

3 screen.

5 Upon completion of the ICMS/CLAIMS-3 updates, click only the “Save All Forms” button at the bottom of the page.

DO NOT click on the “Approve” button.

If you click on the “Cancel Changes” button, all the information that was changed during your update will be erased.

Example of ICMS screen for referrals:

6.C.2 - 1

Section 6.C.2: ASC ISO ELIS Referral Processing

General: The section describes the ASC ISO’s procedures to forward to the local field office for resolution identity issues discovered during the ASC’s processing of USCIS ELIS I-90 applicants – those with IEO prefix receipt numbers.

General Procedure Description: These procedures are used to update the application history in ELIS for those ELIS I-90 applicants for which the ASC ISO has referred to the local field office

(LFO).

When to Use This Procedure: Any time an ELIS I-90 applicant is referred to the LFO for identity issues.

Who Performs This Procedure: The ASC ISO will complete this process.

Note: The ELIS Quick Reference Guide (QRG) is available on the BD Toolbox on ECN.

ELIS Updates

1 To access the ELIS system, ASC-ISO should use the following link:

https://sso.uscis.dhs.gov/sso/ .

2 The Quick Reference Guide (QRG) provides four-part instructions that ASC ISOs may use when they encounter an ELIS I-90 local field office (LFO) referral. The QRG can be found in the BD Toolbox located at the following link:

http://connect.uscis.dhs.gov/org/ESD/biometricsdivision/Pages/BDToolbox.aspx

3 The QRG is separated into the following parts:

Task I: Search for and Open the Case Task II: Review Case and Account Data to Verify Correct Case to Refer Task III: Refer Case with Reason and Comments Task IV: Review Referral Results

4 If an ELIS I-90 applicant cannot be fully processed and a waiver must be granted, that information needs to be uploaded into the ELIS database. The ASC-ISO will need to upload various documents so that the ELIS databases are complete. Use the procedures provided in the link “Proper Upload of Documents in ELIS” in Step https://sso.uscis.dhs.gov/sso/ http://connect.uscis.dhs.gov/org/ESD/biometricsdivision/Pages/BDToolbox.aspx

6.C.2 - 2

ELIS Updates

5 below.

5 The following links may be used:

• Updating ELIS to reflect that an applicant has been referred to the Local Field Office Refer Case to Field Office QRG

• Proper Upload of Documents in ELIS Evidence Document Upload QRG http://connect.uscis.dhs.gov/employeeresources/Training/USCIS_ELIS/QRGReferCasetoFO.pdf http://connect.uscis.dhs.gov/employeeresources/Training/USCIS_ELIS/QRGUploadDocument.pdf

Chapter 6 Attachments

Chapter 6 Attachments

A – Sample I-90 Appointment Notices A-1 ELIS I-90 Appointment Notice A-2 NBC I-90 Appointment Notice

B – Sample I-90 Receipt Notice

C – Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet

D – Attestation Language

Attachment 6 – A-1

June 2015 6 – A-1

Sample ELIS I-90 Appointment Notice

Attestation Notice

Attachment 6 – A-2

June 2015 6 – A-2

Sample NBC I-90 Appointment Notice

Attachment 6 – B

June 2015 6 – B

Sample I-90 Receipt Notice

THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

RECEIPT NUMBER

MSC0680001234

CASE TYPE

I-90 – Application

Received Date August 11, 2014

Priority Date APPLICANT

John Q. Public A1234567890

NOTICE DATE

August 13, 2014 Page 1 of 1 ASC Code:

John Q. Public ND 123 Main Street Any City, CA 98765

NOTICE TYPE Receipt Notice

Amount Received: $365.00

The above application has been received and forwarded on for further processing. Please notify us immediately if any of the above information is incorrect. If you find it necessary to contact this office in writing, you must include a copy of this receipt notice with your inquiry.

BIOMETRICS-

The next step is to have your biometrics taken at a US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Application Support Center (ASC).

PLEASE NOTE-

USCIS WILL SCHEDULE YOUR BIOMETRICS APPOINTMENT. You will be receiving a biometrics appointment notice with a specific time, date, and place where you will have your fingerprints and/or photos taken. You MUST wait for your biometrics appointment notice prior to going to the ASC for biometrics processing. This I-797 receipt notice is NOT your biometrics appointment notice and should not be taken to an ASC for biometrics processing.

WHAT TO BRING TO YOUR BIOMETRICS APPOINTMENT-

Please bring your biometrics appointment letter (with the specific time, date and place where you will have your fingerprints and/or photos taken) AND your photo identification to your biometrics appointment. Acceptable kinds of photo identification are:

• a passport or national photo identification issued by your country,

• a driver’s license,

• a military photo identification, or

• a state-issued photo identification card.

In addition to the above, at the time of your scheduled biometrics appointment, you must bring all required initial evidence and any supporting documentation to continue with the application process.

The required initial evidence includes:

• your prior card, or

• other evidence of permanent residence or commuter status

If you do not bring your biometrics appointment letter and photo identification, processing will not be completed at your scheduled time.

For additional information you may visit the USCIS website at www.USCIS.gov or you can call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.

USCIS – National Benefits Center P.O. Box 648005 Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

Attachment 6 – C

June 2015 6 – C

Local Field Office Resolution Referral Sheet

ASC: ___________________ ASC POC/Phone Number: ___________________

DATE: _________________

REFERENCE:

Applicant’s Name: A-Number:

Receipt #:

REASON(S) for REFERRAL:

The processing of this I-90 applicant was not completed because of the following identity issues:

CPMS contained information for several different people, to include the applicant.

CPMS contained information for several different people, none of which were the applicant.

CPMS contained information that does not support the applicant who presented the I-551 documentation.

CPMS contained multiple I-551 cards issued to this applicant.

Missing or no CIS information.

Details

If favorably resolved, the LFO should update NBC’s ICMS and refer the applicant back to the ASC for biometrics processing.

ASC ISO

Attachment 6 – D

June 2015 6 – D

ATTESTATION LANGUAGE

English Version:

By signing here, I declare under penalty of perjury that I have reviewed and understand my application, petition, or request I-90, as identified by the receipt number displayed on the screen above, and all supporting documents, application(s), petition(s), or request(s) filed with my application, petition, or request I-90, that I (or my attorney or accredited representative) filed with USCIS, and that all of the information in these materials is complete, true and correct.

Spanish Version:

Al firmar aquí, declaro bajo pena de perjurio que he revisado y entiendo mi solicitud, petición o requerimiento I-90, según identificado por el número de recibo mostrado en la pantalla anterior, así como todos los documentos de apoyo, solicitud(es), petición(es), o requerimiento(s) presentados con mi solicitud, petición o requerimiento I-90, que yo (o mi abogado o representante autorizado) presenté/presentó ante USCIS, y que toda la información en estos documentos es completa, verídica y correcta.

REASON(S) for REFERRAL: