It is very important to find out exactly what happened after your interaction with immigration authorities. If you are not sure, we should find out before proceeding with any applications. If you are not sure what happened when you were detained, we can help you submit a Freedom of Information Act ("FOIA") request to get a copy of your immigration record.
To find out, we need information that is contained in your government immigration record, which is called an alien file. There are also several government databases that contain information about your entries and exits from the country, any applications you were a part of, and any times you have interacted with immigration enforcement.
🕐 This process usually takes several months.
Since August 2026, USCIS does not have to ask you for missing evidence before denying an application. What that means for your filing.