FOIA Your Immigration File: A-File, EOIR, CBP and Timelines
At a glance (120 words): The U.S. government maintains detailed records on every noncitizen who has ever interacted with the immigration system — applications filed, entries and exits, enforcement encounters, court proceedings, and more. Under the Freedom of Information Act, you have the right to request those records. Knowing what is in your file can […]
Advance Parole for AOS Applicants: Safe Travel and Reentry Checklist
At a glance (120 words): If you have a pending Form I-485 adjustment of status application and need to travel outside the United States, advance parole is not optional — it is required. Leave without it and USCIS will consider your green card application abandoned. But getting advance parole approved is only half the job. […]
TPS Wind-Downs: Your Options if Temporary Protected Status Ends
At a glance (120 words): Since 2025, the Trump administration has terminated or announced the intent to terminate Temporary Protected Status for over a dozen countries, affecting more than a million people. Some terminations have been blocked by courts. Others have taken effect. The legal landscape is shifting week to week. If your TPS has […]
I-551 ADIT Stamps: When Your Receipt Expires and How to Book an Appointment
At a glance (120 words): When you file for a green card renewal, removal of conditions, or naturalization, USCIS sends a receipt notice that extends your proof of status. But USCIS processing times are long — sometimes years — and that receipt notice eventually expires too. When it does and your case is still pending, […]
What Is Public Charge — and Why Does It Matter for Your Green Card?
At a glance (120 words): Public charge is a ground of inadmissibility that can stop a family-based green card in its tracks. The Form I-864 Affidavit of Support is the sponsor’s financial pledge to the U.S. government — and a weak one draws Requests for Evidence, delays, and sometimes denials. In 2026, USCIS has proposed […]
Orders of Supervision (I-220A and I-220B): Travel Limits and Check-in Rules
At a glance (120 words): An Order of Supervision is an ICE ERO document that allows you to live in the community while ICE enforces an existing immigration obligation, often after a release from detention. Two common forms are I-220A (Order of Release on Recognizance) and I-220B (Order of Supervision). Both can require regular check-ins, […]
ICE Detainee Transfers: How to Track Moves and Keep Attorney Access
At a glance (120 words): ICE transfers happen for space, security, medical, or flight logistics. A transfer can change the detention facility and the court handling the case, it does not erase attorney representation. Track moves with the ICE Online Detainee Locator using the A-Number or name, date of birth, and country of birth. Call […]
Posting Immigration Bond at ERO: Who Can Pay and How Refunds Work (ICE)
At a glance (120 words): You can post an immigration “cash bond” with ICE ERO either online through the CeBONDS portal or in person at a Bond Acceptance Facility. The person who pays is the obligor. In most cases, the obligor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident age 18 or older. Firms […]
ISAP Monitoring Rules: What Counts as a Violation and How to Fix It
At a glance (120 words): ISAP is ICE’s Alternatives to Detention program. It can use SmartLINK phone check-ins, voice ID calls, in-person visits, curfews, or GPS ankle monitors. A “violation” usually means missed or late check-ins, ignored calls or app prompts, travel outside permitted areas, address or phone changes not reported, device tampering or dead […]
I-751 Removal of Conditions: Evidence That Works (and What Triggers RFEs)
At a glance (120 words): If you received a 2-year marriage green card, you must remove conditions with Form I-751 to keep permanent residence. File in the 90-day window before the card expires, or file anytime after if you qualify for a waiver of the joint filing requirement. USCIS wants proof that your marriage was […]