USCIS launches first phase of new FOIA request system allowing digital access to records

Original Date Announced
May 30, 2018
USCIS announces the launch of the FOIA Immigration Records SysTem (FIRST), which will eventually allow all FOIA requestors to track their requests through a USCIS online account and receive their documents digitally. In the first phase, FOIA requestors who have an immigration court date pending and file a request for documents can create an account within myUSCIS to receive the documents digitally. USCIS plans to expand this service to all requestors in the coming months. Before this change, USCIS only accepted FOIA requests by mail, fax, and email, and requestors typically received their documents on a compact disc by mail. [ID #891]
USCIS News Release: USCIS to Implement Online Processing of FOIA Requests
Subsequent Trump and Court Action(s)
- July 24, 2018
  USCIS News Release: USCIS Continues to Expand Digital Delivery of FOIA Requests
  USCIS introduces the second phase of FIRST. View Document
- June 25, 2019
  USCIS Expands FIRST: A Fully Digital FOIA System
  USCIS announces the continued expansion of FIRST. Effective June 25, 2019, FOIA requestors with a USCIS online account can submit requests online for their own records. View Document

Fully in Effect

Status: Final/Actual

Trump Administration Actions: Agency Directive Change in Practice Forms and Information Collection

Subject Matter: Immigrant Visas Non-Immigrant Visas Humanitarian Citizenship

Agencies Affected: USCIS

To provide information, corrections, or feedback, please email IPTP.feedback@gmail.com

Immigration Policy Tracking Project