Below, we explain the main types of waivers available to Bolivian nationals under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), and how to assess your eligibility before applying for a visa.
WHAT IS FOIA AND HOW TO USE IT TO ACCESS YOUR IMMIGRATION HISTORY
- Your travel history (entries and exits to/from the U.S.)
- Any records of immigration fraud or misrepresentation
- Deportation orders or removal proceedings
- Prior interactions with immigration authorities
WHICH U.S. AGENCY SHOULD YOU CONTACT FOR IMMIGRATION RECORDS?
Different U.S. agencies manage various types of immigration records. Depending on your specific case, your FOIA request should be directed to the appropriate agency:
USCIS – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
– Manages A-Files (personal immigration files) – Includes records on applications for asylum, permanent residency, adjustment of status, and more
ICE – Immigration and Customs Enforcement
– Handles information on detentions, deportations, and removal orders – Includes custody records and enforcement actions
CBP – Customs and Border Protection
– Provides your U.S. entry and exit history – Includes Form I-94 records and border crossing data
Tip: If you’re unsure which agency holds your records, you can submit FOIA requests to all three agencies.
WHERE AND HOW TO SUBMIT A FOIA REQUEST TO USCIS, ICE, AND CBP
USCIS
– Submit online via the official USCIS website (uscis.gov) – Or send by mail to the National Records Center
ICE
– Complete Form G-639 and submit it to: **Address:** 500 12th Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20536 **Email:** ICE-FOIA@dhs.gov
CBP
– Submit through the SecureRelease portal at help.cbp.gov
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO FILE A FOIA REQUEST
To ensure your FOIA request is processed efficiently, include the following:
- Full name, date, and place of birth
- Alien registration number (A-Number), if available
- Detailed description of the records you are requesting
- Copy of an official ID (passport or national ID)
- Signed declaration under penalty of perjury or a notarized statement
If requesting records for another person, you must also include:
- A signed authorization from the individual
- Or legal documentation (e.g., power of attorney, court order, or signed consent letter)
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL FOIA REQUEST
- Be specific in your request to avoid delays
- Monitor the official USCIS, ICE, and CBP websites for updated procedures
- Always consult with an immigration attorney if you suspect you may need a waiver before applying for a visa
Obtaining your immigration history through FOIA can help you make informed decisions and prepare for your U.S. visa application. If any issues or irregularities appear in your record, addressing them in advance may significantly improve your chances of approval.
If you need legal assistance reviewing your immigration history or applying for a waiver, contact our immigration attorneys. We provide expert consultations throughout Latin America.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I submit a FOIA request if I’ve never been to the U.S.?
No. There is no record to retrieve unless you’ve previously interacted with the U.S. immigration system.
How long does it take to receive a FOIA response?
Typically 20 to 30 business days, but it can take longer depending on the agency’s workload.
Can I request FOIA records from Bolivia or another country?
Yes. You can submit your request online or by mail from anywhere in the world.
What if my immigration file shows a violation?
If your record includes a past immigration violation, consult an attorney before applying for a new visa.
Can I access my immigration records even if my last trip to the U.S. was years ago?
Yes. U.S. immigration agencies archive these records and can provide them even after many years.
The content of this article does not reflect the technical opinion of Rigoberto Paredes & Associates and should not be considered a substitute for legal advice. The information presented herein corresponds to the date of publication and may be outdated at the time of reading. Rigoberto Paredes & Associates assumes no responsibility for keeping the information in this article up to date, as legal regulations may change over time.
- RIGHTS OF IMMIGRANTS IN BOLIVIA: A LEGAL AND PRACTICAL OVERVIEW
- ILLEGAL STAY OF FOREIGN NATIONALS IN BOLIVIA: LEGAL CONSEQUENCES
- IMMIGRATION WAIVERS FOR ENTERING THE U.S.: OPTIONS FOR BOLIVIAN CITIZENS
- SPAIN’S DIGITAL NOMAD VISA: HOW TO APPLY FROM BOLIVIA
- HOW TO OBTAIN BOLIVIAN NATIONALITY AND CITIZENSHIP