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Stage 1: Getting Started

Your Documents

I’ve received several documents at the border, but I do not understand what they are.

It is very normal to be confused by the paperwork you are given at the border! Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project has created detailed explanations for each of the immigration documents you may have received from the U.S. government. You can find their website here. 

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Please note that it is essential that you attend any appointments listed in the documents that you have received. Failure to attend any immigration appointments typically results in a person being ordered deported.

I’ve just arrived and I’m overwhelmed by all of this information. What should I focus on first?

Of the documents you could have received at the border, the most important one is the Notice to Appear (NTA). It is important because it tells you 1) what your A number is, 2) where your immigration court will be and 3) when you need to be there for your first hearing with the judge. 

 

1) Your A-number is a 9-digit number that is issued by immigration authorities when you enter the United States. It is very important to memorize this number as it will be what is used to identify you throughout the entire immigration process. 

 

2) & 3) During your immigration process, you will have to regularly present yourself to the immigration judge assigned to your case. It is very important to know where your court is and when you must go to court. Please note that failure to attend a court date, or attending late, will result in a deportation order.


Note that, in addition to going to immigration court, you must also check-in with ICE, the immigration police.

Stage 1 Questions

​Overview

  • What is the immigration process?

  • What are the different agencies that are involved in the immigration process?

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Your Documents

  • I've received several documents at the border, but I do not understand what they are.

  • I've just arrived and I'm overwhelmed by all of this information. What should I focus on first?

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Your Immigration Court Hearing

  • How can I find when my next hearing date is?

  • What's going to happen at my first immigration court hearing?

​Checking in with ICE

  • What is ICE and why do I also have to check in with them?

  • How do I schedule and check in for my appointments with ICE?

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Moving During the Immigration Process

  • What happens if I move while I'm waiting for my individual merits hearing?

  • How do I change my address?

  • How do I file a change of venue?

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