Receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) from the U.S. government can be overwhelming. It means the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated removal (deportation) proceedings against you. But don’t panic — you still have rights, and you may have strong legal options to stay in the United States.
This guide explains what an NTA is, what happens next, and what steps you should take immediately to protect yourself.
1. What Is a Notice to Appear (NTA)?
An NTA is a legal document issued by DHS that:
- Starts deportation proceedings in immigration court
- States the alleged violations of immigration law (e.g., overstaying a visa, illegal entry)
- Orders you to appear before an immigration judge at a specific date, time, and location
The NTA is usually delivered in person or by mail. It includes Form I-862.
2. Don’t Ignore the NTA
If you ignore an NTA or fail to show up in court:
- You will likely be ordered deported in your absence (called an “in absentia” removal)
- You may lose the right to apply for immigration benefits in the future
- It can lead to a 10-year bar from reentering the U.S.
Always attend your hearings and respond to court notices — even if you’re afraid.
3. Find an Immigration Attorney Immediately
Your first move should be to consult a qualified immigration attorney. A lawyer can:
- Analyze your immigration history and the charges against you
- Determine what defenses or relief you may qualify for
- Represent you in court and protect your rights
If you can’t afford a private attorney, look for legal aid or nonprofit immigration services in your area.
4. Understand Your Rights in Court
You have the right to:
- Be represented by a lawyer (at your own expense)
- Present evidence and call witnesses
- Apply for relief from removal (e.g., asylum, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status)
- Appeal the judge’s decision
Immigration court is a civil court, not criminal — so the government doesn’t have to provide a free lawyer.
5. Keep All Documents and Attend Every Hearing
- Save all documents from DHS and the court
- Update your address with the court (EOIR) using Form EOIR-33 if you move
- Arrive early to court and dress respectfully
- Bring all requested documents and evidence
Missing a hearing, even by mistake, can lead to automatic removal.
6. Common Defenses and Forms of Relief
Depending on your case, you may qualify for:
- Asylum, Withholding of Removal, or CAT (fear-based protections)
- Cancellation of Removal (if you’ve lived in the U.S. long enough and meet other requirements)
- Adjustment of Status (through a family member or employer)
- Voluntary Departure (avoids a removal order)
Each form of relief has strict requirements — your attorney will guide you.
7. What If You Already Have an Order of Removal?
You may still have options:
- File a Motion to Reopen your case
- Apply for Deferred Action, TPS, or another status change
- Request a stay of removal or postpone deportation due to medical or family reasons
But the timeline is short — act fast.
Getting a Notice to Appear is serious, but it’s not the end of the road. Many people go on to win their cases or stay legally in the U.S.
Your best defense is information, preparation, and legal representation. Don’t face immigration court alone — the right help can make all the difference.
