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Request your Immigration File using FOIA

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that makes government information accessible to the general public. FOIA was enacted in 1966. The law is based on the presumption that individuals have a right to know what their government is doing and that governmental agencies have a duty to provide full disclosure of all records that are not specifically and reasonably exempt. FOIA applies to all 15 departments, including the Department of Homeland Security, and 73 other federal agencies within the executive branch of the U.S. government. such as the Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Reserve System. The Freedom of Information Act does not apply to the President, Congress or the courts. FOIA does not apply to state governments, even though each of the 50 states has its own freedom-of-information laws, as do many cities. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) also applies to USCIS immigration records. This means that any person, including foreign nationals, U.S. permanent residents (Green Card holders), and U.S. citizens can request a copy their USCIS files. There are specific procedures to follow when requesting your immigration records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The procedures to request your USCIS file are described in detailed in the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) – How to Request a Copy of Your USCIS File.

  • Start Application Immediately
  • Easy to Understand Instructions
  • Apply Online or by Mail
  • Pricing and Fee Information Included
  • Checklist of Required Documents
  • Unlimited Online Support

What’s included

  • Overview of the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) and how it can benefit you
  • Benefits of making a FOIA request before submitting your immigration application
  • FOIA request requirements and instructions
  • How to fill out the official FOIA request form
  • Alternative application procedures
  • Sample FOIA request letters
  • Administrative appeal procedures
  • Sample administrative appeal letter
  • Judicial appeal procedures
  • FOIA request fee and mailing address
  • List of Required Documents
  • Information on Filing Fees
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • List of USCIS Offices Nationwide
  • Directory of U.S. Embassies and Consulates
  • Information on how to obtain the latest United States immigration forms

Download Request your Immigration File using FOIA Guide for more information

FOIA Immigration Request: The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) also applies to USCIS immigration records. This means that any person, including foreign nationals, U.S. permanent residents (Green Card holders), and U.S. citizens can request a copy their USCIS files. Some records and information cannot be released if it is classified as national security, business proprietary, personal privacy, or investigative. Depending on your situation, it might be advantageous to request a copy of your immigration file before filing any applications or petitions with the USCIS (formerly INS) or with any U.S. Embassies or Consulates abroad. By having your file you can be prepared for any questions the immigration officer might ask you, and know exactly what the government knows about you. This is especially important for individuals who have already been to the United States or have filed applications in the past.

Records of entry into and exit out of the United States: A FOIA request can also be used to obtain the entry and exit records of foreign citizens. This date is usually not collected from United States citizens entering or leaving the country, but usually is collected from foreign citizens, especially individuals who require a visa to enter the United States, and those who received a I-94 form upon entering the country.

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