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FOIA Requests

We help you ask the government for copies of your immigration, entry and exit, arrest and deportation records before you start a new case.

Book a consultation Call (424) 456-6000

Who this is for

  • You’re about to file a new application and don’t know what your record shows
  • You lost copies of earlier applications, or someone else filed them for you
  • You had an arrest, a detention or an encounter at the border
  • You have a deportation order or an immigration court hearing

What is FOIA?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that lets you ask U.S. government agencies for copies of the records they keep. When the records are about you, the Privacy Act also applies and gives you the right to see your own information. In practice, you (or someone you authorize) send a written request, the agency searches its files and sends you copies. Some parts may be blacked out, and the agency has to explain why.

Why do immigrants request their records?

Before filing a new case, it’s wise to know exactly what the government already has about you. People request their records to:

  • See their earlier applications and what they answered, especially if someone else prepared them.
  • Confirm their entries and exits and how they entered the country.
  • Learn about arrests and how they ended, even from many years ago.
  • Review their deportation history, detentions or encounters at the border.
  • Avoid contradictions: an answer that doesn’t match your file can cause a delay, a denial or worse.

The law gives agencies 20 working days to respond, but in practice many requests take months, so it’s best to request records early. Immigration court records are requested separately from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

Which request do I need?

Each agency keeps different records. Many people need more than one request; we help you decide which ones.

How HMN helps

  1. 1. We review your situation

    We talk through your history and decide together which records to request and from which agencies.

  2. 2. We prepare and submit

    We fill out the requests, explain what you’re signing and submit them through the official portals.

  3. 3. We follow up

    We check on each request and respond if the agency asks for more information.

  4. 4. We go over the records with you

    When they arrive, we read them with you and explain what they mean for your next case.

Get help with your records

Leave your details and we’ll call you to go over which records you need. We only ask for what we need to contact you.

Please don’t include your A-number, date of birth, case details or immigration status. We’ll go over those in person.

Which records are you interested in?

Check all that apply. If you’re not sure, we’ll help you decide.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a FOIA request cost?

Requesting your own records from the agencies usually costs nothing. The law makes the first two hours of searching and the first 100 pages free for people who aren’t requesting records for commercial use, and the agency tells you before charging more than you agreed to pay. The FBI’s criminal history check (Identity History Summary) does have a fee. If we help you prepare the requests, we explain any cost before we start.

How long do the records take?

The law gives agencies 20 working days to respond and lets them extend that time in some cases. In practice, many requests take months, depending on the agency and how many documents there are. USCIS prioritizes people who have a scheduled immigration court hearing if they send proof of the hearing.

Can HMN request the records for me?

Yes, with your written authorization. The agencies require the person the records are about to sign a certification of identity or a consent. We explain each form before you sign it and submit the requests for you.

Important notice

This page is general information, not legal advice. Hermandad Mexicana Nacional is a nonprofit organization, not a law firm. Agency requirements, forms, fees and timelines can change; always confirm them on each agency’s official website.

Hermandad Mexicana Nacional is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Any fees for our services help keep them low-cost and fund our community programs. We explain every cost before you start.

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Walk in or call the office nearest you. Every office offers service in Spanish and English.

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