Immigration document replacement I-102 and FOIA 2026

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

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

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

FAQ

Is my old paper I-94 still valid? If you entered before 2013 with a paper I-94, it remains valid as entry proof until you depart. For new verification, download the electronic one if available.

Is FOIA always free? Yes for individuals requesting their own file. Companies or third parties may face copy fees.

How fast is the electronic I-94? Instant if you entered by air and the system has your record. If you entered by land and it does not appear, request correction at a CBP Deferred Inspection Site.

Lost my green card — use I-102? No. Use I-90.

Lost my EAD — use I-102? No. Use I-765 marked "replacement."

Can I FOIA my deceased parent's file? Yes, with the death certificate and proof of relationship.

Does FOIA show what USCIS said internally about my case? Partially. Internal notes are often redacted (b)(5) for deliberation, but you see evidence received, forms filed, decisions, and RFEs.

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