A Notice to Appear, usually called an NTA, is Form I-862. It is a key document because removal proceedings begin when the Department of Homeland Security files the NTA with the immigration court.
What the NTA can tell you
The document identifies the person, states factual allegations and charges, and may include information about where and when to appear. In some cases, a separate hearing notice later provides or changes the hearing details.
Do not assume that the first date you saw will always remain the current date. Keep every later hearing notice too.
What to save
Keep a complete copy of the NTA, including every page. Record:
- the date it was served;
- the A-number shown on it;
- the address used by the government;
- any hearing date, time, and location;
- the allegations and charges listed; and
- any later hearing notice that changes the schedule.
If you have an envelope, proof of service, or electronic notice associated with it, keep that as well.
Why it matters to an asylum case
If you are in removal proceedings, the immigration judge may have jurisdiction over your application for relief. EOIR also states that a person generally cannot use Respondent Access to file Form I-589 before DHS has filed the NTA with EOIR and EOIR has accepted it.
That is why the NTA belongs near the front of your evidence and case-management file, not mixed into a pile of unrelated papers.
Practical organization rule
Create a folder called Court and Government Notices. Put the NTA first, followed by hearing notices, filing receipts, court orders, and other government correspondence in chronological order.
Then make a short index showing the date and purpose of each document.
Official starting points
- EOIR Learn About Immigration Court: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/learn-about-immigration-court
- EOIR Respondent Access FAQ: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/respondent-access-portal-frequently-asked-questions
Verified against official sources: August 12, 2026.
This article is general educational information and is not legal advice.