Immigration Court
Learn about immigration court. Find resources if you have a case in immigration court and do not have a lawyer.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CASE IN IMMIGRATION COURT?
If you entered the U.S. without a visa and were stopped by immigration officials and given paperwork, you may have a case in immigration court. If you received a Notice to Appear (NTA) or an Order of Release on Recognizance, you probably have a case in immigration court. These are just examples. There are many ways that people end up with cases in immigration court.
This video explains the process for cases in immigration court.
Video updated: November 2020
HOW DO I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT MY IMMIGRATION COURT CASE?
If you have a case in immigration court, you can find the date of your next hearing and other information by calling the Immigration Court Hotline or by checking the Immigration Court’s Case Information website. Below are instructions for finding this information.
Guide updated: December 2022
I recently moved. what should i do?
Because you will receive important notices from the U.S. government by mail, you must make sure the immigration court knows your current mailing address. It is not enough to change your address with the Post Office only!
Learn how to update your address below.
HOW DO I CHANGE MY COURT TO THE BOSTON IMMIGRATION COURT?
If you live in Maine, the closest immigration court is the Boston Immigration Court. If you want to change your court to the Boston immigration court, you will need to file a Motion to Change Venue. Changing your address will not automatically change your court.
ILAP can help you change your court to the Boston Immigration Court.
If you can't come to our Portland office, you can request an appointment with ILAP to get help changing your court.
What will happen at my first immigration court hearing?
If you are going to your first immigration court hearing and you do not have a lawyer, you need to prepare. Below is information about what to expect at your first hearing and instructions for people going to the Boston Immigration Court for the first time.
Guide updated: December 2021
Video updated: January 2021
HOW DO I SUBMIT MY ASYLUM APPLICATION TO THE IMMIGRATION COURT?
If you have a case at the Lowell Immigration Court and want to apply for asylum, below are instructions on how to send your asylum application.
who can help me at the boston immigration court?
CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF BOSTON - IMMIGRATION COURT HELPDESK
The Immigration Court Helpdesk (ICH) provides:
Free assistance and legal information to unrepresented respondents in removal proceedings at the Boston Immigration Court.
Free Information on court practices, procedures, and general information about options related to relief and protection from removal, and other relevant resources.
617-464-8000
Last updated: May 2022
How can i pROTECT MYSELF AGAINST IMMIGRATION FRAUD?
Be careful when getting help with your immigration case! Beware of people in Maine who try to trick you by pretending to help with immigration cases. These people can steal your money and hurt your immigration case.
The best way to protect yourself is by having information about what these people do and being careful about who you allow to help you with your immigration case.
The ILAP resources on this page were developed by lawyers and accredited representatives, but are not a substitute for legal advice.
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Immigration Court
How do I know if I have a case in immigration court?
How do I find information about my immigration court case?
I recently moved. What do I need to do?
How do I change my court to the Boston Immigration Court?
What will happen at my first immigration court hearing?
How do I submit my asylum application to the immigration court?