How to Check if You Have an Immigration Case: A Step-by-Step Guide

In recent days, reports have emerged in US immigrant communities of people awaiting status having immigration cases opened against them that they are not even aware of. Stories are emerging of people missing court hearings because they haven't received NTA summonses.Notice to Appear) or notice of hearing.

The potential risks of missing immigration court hearings are significant, including being subject to an in-absence removal order. Therefore, if you're waiting to receive your immigration status, have applied to change it, or are in limbo, it's best to regularly check to see if you have an open case in immigration court.

How to check your status in the EOIR immigration court system

To check the status:

1. Go to the official federal resource.
2. Enter your A-Number (format Axxx-xxx-xxx) and citizenship.

On the subject: A Ukrainian woman described life in the immigration detention center at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City.

If a case has been opened against you, the system will show:

• current status;
• date and time of the meeting;
• court address;
• additional information about the consideration (if any).

Why is it important

The USCIS and EOIR systems are not interconnected. Applying for one status through USCIS does not guarantee that your case will not be brought to court.

Subpoenas may not arrive for various reasons:

• outdated or incorrect address;
• technical errors;
• delivery by regular mail without confirmation.

Failure to attend a Master Hearing automatically results in an order of removal in absentia.

Recommendations from lawyers:

• Check your A-Number in the EOIR system;
• Make sure your address is current with USCIS (Form AR-11) and EOIR;
• If you find an open case or a scheduled hearing, contact an immigration lawyer immediately;
• If you are unsure of your status, it is worth conducting a legal check of all documents and entry history.