U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has closed offices in Florida and South Carolina due to Hurricane Matthew.

The powerful storm was approaching the U.S. coast Thursday afternoon, and USCIS offices that are closed today are expected to remain closed Friday.

Visa applicants with appointments at offices that are closed are reminded that some appointments are automatically rescheduled, while applicants must take action to reschedule others.

Generally, appointments for interviews and for biometrics are automatically rescheduled, but applicants scheduled for InfoPass or other appointments must reschedule on their own. Information about how to reschedule appointments is available on this USCIS website.

Application Support Centers that are closed will take walk-ins when they reopen, but applicants should expect longer lines.

BAL Analysis: Clients in affected areas should monitor the USCIS website for updated information about office closures. Those needing to reschedule an appointment can contact BAL if they require assistance.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney. Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.