In an immigration proceeding, the decision does not always go in favor of the immigrant. Sometimes it is necessary to protest an immigration court’s verdict and lay the question before a higher power. An immigration appeal allows an individual to appeal an immigration court’s decision to a higher authority.
An immigration appeal is a formal request to a different authority than the immigration courts. An immigration appeal will be made to the U.S. Center for Immigration Services Administrative Appeals Office or the Board of Immigration Appeals. The Board of Immigration Appeals is an office within the Department of Justice. The notice of denial or revocation will inform whether a decision can be appealed and where the appeal can be filed.
Once a notice of denial or appeal is issued, there will be a section explaining whether the decision can be appealed and to whom it can be appealed. Once an appeal is filed, the appellate board will examine the facts and arguments and issue a ruling that either sustains or overrules the immigration court’s decision.
Depending on the type of appeal, the fees and associated costs can be over $100. Additionally, individuals seeking to obtain the best possible outcome will want to retain an immigration attorney which can cost hundreds of dollars.