REQUEST OF FOIA TO USCIS OR CBP
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a key tool for obtaining records related to your immigration history in the United States. It is essential to request a FOIA if you have been deported, are planning to apply for an immigration waiver, or if an immigration petition was denied and you are unsure of the reason. Through FOIA, you can access important information about your case, helping you understand decisions made by immigration agencies and prepare better strategies for future applications or appeals.
REQUEST OF FOIA TO USCIS OR CBP
USCIS FOIA
Obtain copies of submitted immigration forms (e.g., I-130, I-485, I-140).
• Review decision notices on applications for residency, naturalization, or family petitions.
• Access your adjustment of status history or correspondence between USCIS and your case.
USCIS FOIA PROCESS
1. Complete Form G-639: This form is used for Freedom of Information Act requests. You can fill it out online using USCIS’s FOIA Immigration Records System (FIRST) or submit it by mail.
2. Provide Personal Details: Include your full name, A-Number (Alien Registration Number), and specify the information you are requesting.
3. Submit Online or by Mail: The online portal is faster and allows real-time tracking of your request.
4. Make sure to provide enough evidence of ID or G-28 or power of attorney.
USCIS FOIA Processing Times:
• Standard Response: Processing typically takes 4 to 6 months, though it may be longer depending on case complexity or volume of requests.
• Expedited Processing: If urgent for litigation or deportation proceedings, expedited processing can reduce the time to around 30 days, if approved.
CBP FOIA
• Obtain a complete record of your entries and exits from the U.S.
• Access deportation or apprehension records at borders.
• Review documents on border inspections or incidents at airports or ports of entry.
• Obtain reports of CBP detentions or interactions with customs officers.
If you have been deported or denied entry at the border, it is crucial to get your complete immigration history through a CBP FOIA before applying for any immigration waiver or attempting to re-enter the U.S.
CBP FOIA PROCESS
1. Submit an Online FOIA Request: Submit your request directly through the CBP FOIA Online portal.
2. Include Personal Information: Provide personal details such as full name, passport number, A-Number (if applicable), and other identification documents.
3. Specify the Records You Need: Request a report of entries and exits, deportation details, or any other relevant records.
4. Make sure to provide enough evidence of ID or G-28 or power of attorney.
CBP FOIA Processing Times:
• Standard Response: Processing usually takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on the volume of requests.
• Expedited Processing: If you have an urgent situation (e.g., court or appeal), you can request expedited processing. If granted, the response time can be significantly reduced.