From the desk of Han Lin, Manager
Dec 2, 2025
Louise Trauma Center received a copy of the FOIA & Privacy Act Case Create Guide, dated July 17, 2023. The guide is 127 pages long, and you may read it yourself on the “Other Materials” page. Below are a few excerpts from the guide.
The USCIS FOIA & Privacy Act Case Create Guide explains how USCIS processes requests for immigration records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
and the Privacy Act (PA). The guide outlines requirements for verifying the identity of requestors, granting consent, classifying requests, and
managing workflow inside the FIRST system.
Who Can Request Records:
Anyone can request federal records, but access to personal immigration documents requires proper identity verification (VOI) and
Certification of Agreement (consent). Categories include first-party requestors, attorneys and accredited representatives, parents/guardians,
and bond obligors.
Key Requirements:
- Consent: Signed authorization (G-639, G-28, or notarized statement) when someone requests another person’s records.
- Verification of Identity: Full name, DOB or year, place of birth, and signature under penalty of perjury.
- Special rules apply for minors, deceased individuals, guardians, and attorneys.
Processing Tracks:
- Track 1 (Simple): Single document or easily accessible file.
- Track 2 (Complex): Full A-files or records stored offsite.
- Track 3 (Expedited): Urgent need such as upcoming court hearing.
How USCIS Creates a Case:
Staff enter information into FIVE key FIRST sections: Type of Request, Requestor Info, Subject Info, Consent, and Additional Info.
Accuracy determines correct routing and processing time.
Outcomes:
USCIS may issue records, declare “no records,” request missing documents, deny for failure to comply, or refer materials to another
agency such as DOS, CBP, or ICE.
This guide helps ensure FOIA processing is consistent, legally compliant, and transparent for all requestors.