Request agency records from USCIS

Looking for your own immigration records, or someone else's? Instructions for those requests are coming soon. On FIRST they are separate choices: "Request for My Immigration Records" and "Request for Someone Else's Immigration Records." This page covers the third choice, "Other Requests."

1. Search what is already public. The records may already be posted. USCIS Electronic Reading Room
2. Set up a USCIS online account. FIRST, the USCIS online FOIA request portal, signs you in with a USCIS online account (the sign-in page also offers Login.gov); USCIS explains how to create one. USCIS: How to create a USCIS online account
3. Sign in to FIRST and choose "Other Requests." FIRST describes that choice as a FOIA request "about USCIS agency information including personnel-related requests." Open FIRST · USCIS: Request records through FOIA or the Privacy Act
4. Describe the records narrowly, then submit. Name the record type, the office if known, and a date range, so the agency can run an "organized, non-random search" (6 C.F.R. 5.3(b)). Consider keeping one topic per request. Ask for records, not answers: FOIA does not require agencies "to create new records or to conduct research, analyze data, or answer questions" when responding to requests, so name the documents you want. FOIA.gov: frequently asked questions · Or start from a request already on the tracker
5. Keep your receipt. To check status online you "will need the FOIA control number included in your receipt message."
6. Know the timing. How timing is counted
7. If the request is denied in full or in part, or closed, you can appeal. Directions on how to appeal should be provided in your final action letter.
8. Optional: if you used a template from this site, you can send proof. After review it is added to the participation count. How to send proof