Replacing immigration documents (I-102, FOIA): steps and costs

Recovering a lost immigration document is one of the most common questions. There are two paths depending on what you need: Form I-102 to replace arrival/departure records, and a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request for your full file or copies of past filings. Here is when to use each.

What each path covers

Form I-102

For replacing:

• I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) lost or destroyed.
• I-94W (Visa Waiver version).
• Duplicate entry record when the original has errors.

Not for: green card (I-90), EAD (I-765), USCIS receipts, file copies.

FOIA request

For obtaining:

• Your complete A-file — your entire history with USCIS, ICE, CBP.
• Copies of forms you filed (I-485, I-130, I-589, etc.) when the original is lost.
• Decisions, RFEs, submitted evidence.
• Officer notes (limited and redacted).
• Information USCIS, ICE, or CBP held on you.

Not for: asking for new documents or changing decisions.

When you need I-102

Most people do not, because since 2013, USCIS and CBP keep the I-94 electronically. Download your current I-94 free at i94.cbp.dhs.gov using your passport and entry date.

You need I-102 when:

• Your I-94 was on paper (pre-2013) and you lost it.
• The electronic I-94 has errors (wrong category or date) that CBP at the airport did not fix.
• You need a duplicate with specific markings.

Step by step for I-102

1. Confirm need: download the electronic I-94 first. If complete and correct, no I-102 needed.
2. Fill I-102: identify the copy you need.
3. Pay: $560 in 2026.
4. Attach evidence: passport bio (and visa if any), entry proof (passport stamps), copy of prior I-94 if you have it.
5. Send to USCIS lockbox per the current address for that form.
6. Receipt I-797C: 2-4 weeks.
7. Decision: 3-9 months typically.

Step by step for FOIA

USCIS, ICE, and CBP each run their own FOIA. Each agency holds its part of the file.

USCIS:

1. Fill Form G-639 (FOIA/Privacy Act Request) or file online at FIRST (firstusa.uscis.gov).
2. Identify what you want: full A-file is most common.
3. Attach ID: passport, green card, or driver's license copy.
4. No fee: USCIS FOIA is free for individuals requesting their own file.
5. File: online (fastest), mail, or fax.
6. Track assignment:
   • Track 1: simple — 30-60 days.
   • Track 2: complex — 6-12 months.
   • Track 3: in removal with upcoming hearing — expedited (weeks).
7. Receive the file: USB, digital download, or printed.

CBP (entries/exits):

• Use TRIP or FOIA to the CBP FOIA Office.
• Useful for travel history and secondary inspections.

ICE (removal, detention):

• FOIA to ICE FOIA Office via FOIAonline.
• Useful for detention or removal history.

Documents needed

I-102:

• Passport bio (and visa if applicable).
• Entry proof (stamps, tickets, itinerary).
• Copy of prior I-94 if available.
• $560 check or money order.

FOIA:

• Signed G-639 (or online filing).
• Photo ID copy.
• For another living person's file: that person's G-28 or written consent.
• For deceased person's file: death certificate.

Timing and fees 2026

Path	Cost	Time
Electronic I-94 (online)	Free	Instant
I-102 USCIS	$560	3-9 months
FOIA USCIS Track 1	Free	30-60 days
FOIA USCIS Track 2	Free	6-12 months
FOIA USCIS Track 3 (expedited)	Free	2-4 weeks
FOIA CBP	Free	1-3 months
FOIA ICE	Free	2-6 months

Common delays

• Not downloading electronic I-94 first before spending $560.
• FOIA without original signature or ID.
• FOIA without specifying what you want (broad requests land in Track 2 with long waits).
• Requesting spouse or child's file without their consent.
• Not marking expedited if in removal (Track 3).
• Missing G-28 if represented by an attorney.

When FOIA is strategic

• Before filing N-400: confirms the file has no unresolved issues.
• Before adjustment if you had multiple entries or old cases.
• After a denial: understand what evidence USCIS considered.
• In removal: the lawyer needs the file to defend.
• Suspected prior-preparer fraud: confirm what was actually filed in your name.

Need help?

A well-structured FOIA can reveal critical information or prevent surprises. If you are considering a major filing, a prior FOIA can be a smart investment. [