Immigration Court

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.

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 Chelmsford IMMIGRATION COURT?

If you live in Maine, the closest immigration court is the Chelmsford Immigration Court. If you want to change your court to the Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford Immigration Court and want to apply for asylum, below are instructions on how to send your asylum application.

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.