A Notice to Appear (NTA) is a formal document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It begins the removal process for someone who may not have legal status to stay in the country. The NTA tells the individual they must go before an immigration judge and explain their situation.
The notice includes key details. It lists the person’s name and address, as well as the reasons the government believes they can be removed. It also provides the time, date, and location of the first immigration court hearing. Below are some key factors to bear in mind.
Why a notice to appear matters
Receiving an NTA is serious. It means the U.S. government has started a case to remove someone from the country. It is not the same as a deportation order, but it begins that legal process.
People who receive an NTA are now in removal proceedings. This means a judge will review their right to remain in the U.S.. The person must attend all hearings. If they miss a hearing, the judge can order them to be removed automatically.
What happens after receiving an NTA
Once an NTA is issued, the person enters immigration court proceedings. The first hearing is called a master calendar hearing. It is usually short and helps set the path for the case.
After that, the case may move to an individual hearing, where more facts and evidence are presented. The judge will eventually decide whether the person can stay or must leave the U.S.
If someone does not appear in court, the judge can issue an order of removal in their absence. This is called an in absentia order and can make it much harder to return to the U.S. in the future. If you have received an NTA, it is essential to seek legal guidance.