Over 400,000 Immigration Cases Are Being Reopened, Many May Not Know They’re Affected

ARIZONA – Thousands of immigrants across the U.S. who previously had deportation cases closed, may now be back in removal proceedings without proper notification due to recent changes in immigration enforcement policies. 

These federal actions have led to the reopening of more than 400,000 immigration cases that were closed after 2010. This includes cases involving individuals who applied for or received protections such as DACA, VAWA, or U-VISAs, but had prior proceedings in immigration court.

Advocates and attorneys are urging immigrants who have been in immigration court after 2010 and still do not have legal status, such as a green card or U.S. citizenship, should act quickly to check if their case has been reopened.

How to check your case status:

• If you had an attorney during your original case, contact them immediately. Courts will notify the lawyer, not the individual. Attorneys may only have 10 days to respond to these court notices.

• If your attorney no longer practices, has moved, or you have moved out of state, you can check your status by entering your A-number (found on immigration paperwork) at: acis.eoir.justice.gov 

• This website will show if your case is active, closed, or if a hearing is scheduled.

Next Steps:

• If you had an attorney during your original case, contact them immediately. Courts will notify the lawyer, not the individual. 

• If you don't have legal representation, seek help from a trusted immigration attorney.

• Non-profit and paralegals cannot support these motions. Only attorneys can help. We have this list of lawyers available. 

• Stay alert and informed, especially if you or someone you know might be impacted.

This development comes as part of a broader shift in immigration policy that may impact families across the state, especially in rural areas where access to legal resources is limited.

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Protect Our Pueblos is a collaborative campaign between Rural Arizona Engagement and Rural Arizona Action focused on informing and empowering immigrant communities in rural Arizona. For updates and resources, visit: raze.org/protectourpueblos.