How Can I Get a Copy of My Immigration Records?

It is no exaggeration to say that your immigration file contains some of the most important documents of your life. Visa applications, approval notices, court orders, biometric records: all this and more lives in a file maintained by the federal government. Knowing how to access that file from the specific department it resides in can, on occasion, make a significant difference in your legal case, your application timeline, or your ability to plan next steps.

At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, our attorneys assist foreign nationals and their families with all aspects of U.S. immigration law. Part of that work often involves helping clients locate, request, and review their own records. Here is what you need to know.

Why Would Someone Need to Request Their Immigration Records?

There are several practical reasons to request your immigration file, such as:

• Applying for a green card or naturalization: Prior filings and decisions can affect current eligibility.
• Tracking prior applications or information: If records were lost or misplaced, a file request can restore your full documentation history.
• Preparing for removal defense: Your attorney needs to review your full history before building a defense strategy.
• Other legal proceedings: Appeals and federal litigation often require a complete record.

Your immigration record shows the information that the government has for your case(s), which can be exceedingly helpful for new applications or court defenses.

Where Are Immigration Records Located?

Not all immigration records are held by the same agency. The right place to submit your request depends on what type of record you need.

• USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) holds A-Files which include visa applications, petitions, benefit decisions, and most immigration benefit records
• CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) holds Form I-94 records, entry and exit data, apprehension records, and expedited removal records
• ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) holds bond information, medical records from detention, and student visa data
• U.S. Department of State holds visa requests made abroad

An experienced immigration attorney can help you identify exactly where your records are held.

How Does the Immigration Records Request Process Work?

Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act, you can request your immigration records from government agencies. The process can vary depending on the specific agency.

Requesting Records from USCIS

USCIS requests should be submitted online through your USCIS account. These requests provide notice of agency receipt and processing and allow you to access the documents online. Requests for specific documents are generally processed faster than requests for an entire A-File, so it is important to be as precise as possible about what you need.

If you are requesting records because you have an upcoming immigration court hearing, USCIS will prioritize your request. You must include a copy of your Notice to Appear (Form I-862), Notice of Referral to Immigration Judge (Form I-863), Order to Show Cause (Form I-122), or written notice of a future hearing date with your request.

Requesting Records from CBP, ICE, or the State Department

Each agency has its own FOIA request process. CBP and ICE both maintain separate online portals. The State Department handles its own requests through foia.state.gov. If you are unsure which agency holds the records you need, an immigration attorney can help clarify.

What Should You Do After Receiving Your Records?

Once you receive your file, you can:

• Review for accuracy: Look for incorrect dates, name spellings, or decisions that do not match your history.
• Identify missing documents: A gap in your file could indicate a lost filing or an administrative error.
• Share with your attorney: Your legal representative needs a complete picture of your immigration history before advising on your next steps.
• Use the records strategically: Prior approvals, denials, and court orders all influence future applications and proceedings.

Your immigration file provides a full picture of your interactions with the U.S. government and immigration system. This information can guide your decisions as you apply for a green card or seek relief from removal.

Work With an Immigration Attorney Who Knows the Process

Requesting and reviewing immigration records can feel daunting, especially when your status or your family’s future depends on what those records contain. The attorneys at Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC have been helping clients navigate U.S. immigration law since our firm was founded in 1974. From employment- and family-based petitions to removal defense and federal court litigation, our team brings decades of experience to every case.

If you need help obtaining your immigration records or understanding what they mean for your situation, our team is here to help. Contact Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC to schedule a confidential consultation.