The purpose of a FOIA is to get a copy of the immigrant’s government files to see what is in them and to prepare a strategy. The results of a FOIA are only as good as the information requested. People need to know what they are doing, what they need, and which agencies have which documents and information. Getting help from an attorney or DOJ Rep is highly advised instead of doing it yourself.
- Who has what kind of information? This is a good guide (find the chart): https://www.cbp.gov/site-policy-notices/foia/records
- Agencies vary as to method – forms required or not, mail, fax, email, online options
- Depending on case type and immigrant’s history, may need to FOIA everyone below – another reason to get legal help
- Privacy Act mentioned in links applies to some people and not others; similar process but read carefully
- Follow each agencies’ instructions carefully and accurately
- USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/freedom-information-and-privacy-act-foia
- CBP: https://www.cbp.gov/site-policy-notices/foia/records
- ICE: https://www.ice.gov/foia/overview
- DHS/OBIM: https://www.dhs.gov/obim-biometric-identification-services
- EOIR/Immigration Courts: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/foia-facts
- State Department (e.g., re prior visa applications): https://foia.state.gov/Request/Visa.aspx