FOR EVERY JOURNEY
Know exactly what's in your record.
Before you file, appeal, or plan a next step, you need to know what the government already has on you. Your FOIA immigration records – your A-file and full history – are what Onward Immigration obtains, so your strategy is built on facts, not guesses.
IS THIS YOU?
You may be in the right place if...
The planner
You’re preparing a case and you need to see your full immigration history before you file.
The uncertain
You’re not sure what happened in a past case – a prior application, entry, or proceeding – and you need the record.
The appeal-ready
You’re challenging a decision and you need the underlying file to do it right.
The Path Forward
How we build your case
I
Identify the records
We determine which agency holds what you need – your A-file, court records, or entry history – and which request to file.
II
File & follow-up
We submit the FOIA request, track it, and push when the response is slow or incomplete.
III
Review & advise
We review what comes back and help you understand what it means for your next step.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Clear, flat fees.
A clear, agreed fee, set before we begin. Your request is handled by an attorney who knows what to ask for and how to read what comes back.
GOOD QUESTIONS
FOIA & records request questions, answered.
What is a FOIA request and why would I need one?
A FOIA request asks a government agency for copies of its records about you – your immigration file, entry history, or past case documents. People use it to prepare a new filing, understand a prior case, or support an appeal. Knowing what the government has prevents surprises. We request the right records for your goal.
What's an immigration "A-file"?
Your A-file is the master record tied to your Alien Registration Number. It can hold past applications, notices, interview notes, entry and exit records, and decisions. It’s often the single most useful document for understanding your history. We help you obtain it and interpret what’s inside.
How long does a FOIA request take?
It varies by agency and how complex or urgent the request is – some return in weeks, others take much longer. Faster tracks exist in certain situations, like an upcoming court date. We file in the right track, follow up, and escalate when an agency sits on a request too long.
Can you get records if I have a court date or deadline coming up?
Often, yes. Some agencies expedite requests when there’s an imminent hearing or deadline, and flagging the urgency correctly matters. If you’re working against the clock, tell us early – we’ll request expedited processing and push to get your records in time to be useful.
How do I get my immigration records?
You file a FOIA request with the agency that holds them – often your A-file with USCIS. We identify the right records and request track, file it, follow up, and help you read what comes back.
Ready to move onward?
Every journey begins with a conversation. Let’s talk about where you’re headed,
and how to get you there.