EOIR calls the immigration-court case file the Record of Proceeding, or ROP. When the file is maintained electronically, Respondent Access can allow you to request and download the electronic Record of Proceeding, often called the eROP.
How the electronic request works
EOIR states that a person using Respondent Access can select Request Download for an electronic case file. The eROP is generally made available within 24 hours.
The downloaded file can contain filings, court documents, correspondence, and other materials associated with the case.
What if the button is disabled?
A disabled Request Download button may mean the record is maintained only on paper. EOIR directs people with paper files to use the separate process for requesting a Record of Proceeding.
Why getting your own copy matters
A complete case file can help you identify:
- forms previously filed;
- declarations or statements already submitted;
- hearing notices and court orders;
- government filings;
- prior evidence;
- dates that need to match your current timeline; and
- missing documents you thought had been filed.
Organize the downloaded file
Do not leave the eROP as one large PDF without reviewing it. Create an index of the most important documents and note the page numbers where they appear.
Keep the original downloaded file unchanged and work from a copy if you need to annotate or extract pages.
Official source
EOIR Respondent Access Portal FAQ: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/respondent-access-portal-frequently-asked-questions
Verified against official sources: August 12, 2026.
General educational information only; not legal advice.