Appeals
The United States immigration system allows any individual seeking to challenge immigration-related decisions through the appeals process.
The primary role of the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) is to evaluate the evidence, arguments and decision of a case and rule on whether or not to overturn that court’s decision. In doing so, they not only ensure justice has been served, but also establish precedence that has wide-ranging implications for national immigration policy.
Those seeking an appeal on an immigration decision can challenge the case with the BIA or with the circuit courts. There are 12 federal judicial circuit courts, known as the U.S. Court of Appeals. These courts are able to appeal decisions made by certain federal district courts as well as the BIA. This extra layer of review is crucial in ensuring immigration laws are applied fairly and consistently.