Immigration Court Hearings: Staying Informed and Knowing Your Options

Keeping your address current and checking official court notices can help you stay informed about your immigration court hearing. If you miss one, promptly reviewing the court record can help you understand what happened and which next steps may be available. Always check your case status and hearing date at https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/

Update your address with the court

If your address changes, file Form EOIR-33/IC with the immigration court within five business days. Follow the form’s filing and service instructions, including providing a copy to DHS as directed. Retain confirmation of your submission.

Updating USCIS or arranging mail forwarding does not replace this court filing. Each affected family member with a pending immigration court case must submit a separate form.

Confirm your hearing details

Always check hearing dates on https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/

Review your official notices for the hearing date, time, location, and attendance instructions. EOIR’s automated case-information tools can help you check your case at https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/, but court documents are the official source for hearing information.

Set reminders and plan ahead for travel or any remote-hearing arrangements. Stay in touch with your attorney and promptly raise any attendance issues. Confirm any changes rather than assuming your hearing has been rescheduled.

If you miss a hearing

A judge may issue a removal order in your absence, known as an in absentia order. Confirm whether an order was entered and gather:

• Hearing notices and the court order
• Address-change forms and submission confirmations
• Records explaining why you could not attend

Updating your address afterward does not cancel an order. An attorney can review your address history, notice records, and the circumstances surrounding your absence and may decide to file a motion to reopen (MTR) if you have not missed the filing deadline. 

Ask about reopening and deadlines

In removal proceedings, a motion to reopen and rescind an in absentia order may be available if the applicable legal requirements are met.

Seek advice promptly so an attorney can assess which grounds and timing rules apply to your case.

You can book a consultation online an choose an available time on our calendar. We offer consultations by Zoom, phone, or in person, depending on what works best for you.

If you do not see a suitable appointment slot online, please call us at (650) 373-1122. Additional availability may be available by phone.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.