Fix and improvement tickets for the FIRST system
This request asks for records on requests for improvements to FIRST (the system USCIS uses to track records requests) and on tickets reporting defects, meaning problems, in it.
Figures as of Oct 17, 2026. Check after Nov 16, 2026: if you are reading later than that, these figures may be out of date.
These figures are more than 30 days old. They may not reflect what has happened since Oct 17, 2026.
Timeline
- FiledSep 8, 2026
- ClosedSep 14, 2026
- Appeal filedSep 17, 2026 · Appeal IRW-065-AP · Pending decision
The closure and the appeal
Why USCIS closed the request
USCIS closed the request, claiming it did not follow its request rules (6 C.F.R. 5.3). The letter said the "subject of record's" date of birth was not provided.
What the rules say
USCIS's identity rules apply to requests for records about a person: the requester (6 C.F.R. 5.3(a)(3)) or someone else (6 C.F.R. 5.3(a)(4)). The identity details and signature the letter asked for come from the rule for people seeking their own records (6 C.F.R. 5.21(e)). This request asked for agency records about how USCIS works, not records about a person, so those rules do not apply to it.
Why it was appealed
The appeal asks USCIS to name the specific problem, say whether it reviewed the original request and its attachments, and reopen the request without a new filing, keeping the original receipt date. It also supplied the identity details the letter listed, while not agreeing that they were required for this request.
The closure and appeal sections summarize the letter and the appeal as filed. "What the rules say" is this site's explanation.
File this request too
All FIRST system enhancement requests and defect tickets (FD-series and FO-series), including status, prioritization decisions, and disposition records, January 1, 2025 to present.How to file it