FOIA Immigration Request
Get a copy of your immigration file (A-File) through the Freedom of Information Act. Learn how to request your records from USCIS, ICE, and CBP.
RECOMMENDATION:
We strongly recommend having an attorney help you with your FOIA request. The records can be complex and may contain information that affects your case.
What is FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. § 552) gives anyone the right to request records from federal agencies.
For immigration cases, you can request your complete file known as the A-File (Alien File). This file contains everything the government has about your immigration history.
Your A-File may include:
Legal citation: The Freedom of Information Act is codified at 5 U.S.C. § 552. It applies to all federal agencies, including USCIS, ICE, and CBP.
Why Request Your File?
There are many reasons why getting a copy of your immigration file can be important for your case.
Prepare for immigration court hearings
Review the evidence and documents the government has before appearing before an immigration judge.
Understand what the government has on record
Your file may contain interview notes, prior decisions, and correspondence you never saw.
Find documents you no longer have
Old applications, I-94s, entry/exit records, and prior approvals you need for a new case.
Support a Motion to Reopen
FOIA records can reveal errors or new evidence that justify reopening a closed case.
Verify information before filing a new application
Confirm that the information the government has matches what you plan to submit in your new petition.
Background check preparation
Know exactly what will appear on a background check before an employer or agency reviews it.
How to Submit a FOIA Request
Each federal agency has its own FOIA portal. Where you submit your request depends on the type of records you need.
USCIS
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Records they hold:
Applications, petitions, approvals, denials, work permits, receipt notices
ICE
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Records they hold:
Enforcement actions, detention records, deportation orders, removal records
CBP
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Records they hold:
Entry/exit records, border crossings, port of entry inspections
What You Need to Submit
Where to Submit
- •Each agency's online portal (fastest)
- •By mail to the corresponding agency's FOIA office
- •Through an immigration attorney (recommended)
Costs and Timing
- •Generally free for the first 100 pages
- •$0.10 per page after the first 100
- •Fee waivers available in certain circumstances
- •Processing time: 30 days to several months
What to Expect After Submitting Your Request
The FOIA process has several steps. Here is what happens after you submit your request.
Acknowledgment letter
You will receive a letter with a tracking number to follow your request.
Processing your request
Generally takes 30 days to several months depending on complexity and the volume of pending requests.
Records may be partially redacted
Some sections may be blacked out for national security or third-party privacy reasons.
You can appeal if records are withheld
If the agency withholds records, you have the right to file an administrative appeal.
Records arrive by mail
The agency will mail the documents to the postal address you provided in your request.
Important: Work With an Attorney
Records may contain sensitive information
Your A-File may include officer notes, internal reports, and details that could affect a pending or future case.
An attorney can review and advise you
An immigration attorney understands what the records mean and can identify opportunities or risks in your file.
Some records may reveal issues
Records may show issues you need to address before filing a new application, such as discrepancies or prior encounters.
JLA can submit the FOIA request on your behalf
Our attorneys can prepare and submit your FOIA request, ensuring it is directed to the correct agency with all necessary information.
Notice: You Are About to Leave Our Website
By clicking the links below, you will be redirected to official United States federal government websites. J. Lee & Associates Law Group is not responsible for the content, availability, or accuracy of information on external websites. The information you enter on those sites is not shared with our firm. If you need help with your FOIA request or have questions, call us at (770) 609-9396.
Official FOIA Portals
Need Help With Your FOIA Request?
J. Lee & Associates can submit your FOIA request, review the records, and advise you on the next steps for your immigration case. Confidential initial evaluation.