USCIS has announced a significant procedural change in how applications for extension or change of nonimmigrant status are processed.  As of March 11, 2019, all applicants for extension or change of nonimmigrant status using form I-539 will be required to pay the $85 biometrics services fee in conjunction with the filing of an I-539 application.  Applicants will then be issued biometrics appointment notices following filing of the I-539 application.  It is unclear at this time for what purpose beyond enhanced immigration security the biometrics requirement serves for those in the country temporarily, whether visitors, students or exchange program visitors.  Stay tuned for further developments.