Board of Immigration Appeals

What is the Board of Immigration Appeals, the BIA?

The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) is an administrative appellate body within the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) under the U.S. Department of Justice. It hears appeals from decisions made by immigration judges and certain administrative officers in immigration cases throughout the United States.

The BIA reviews and decides appeals from decisions rendered by immigration judges in removal (deportation) proceedings, bond determinations, and certain other immigration-related matters. It also reviews appeals from decisions made by DHS officers in various immigration cases, such as asylum and adjustment of status applications.

Additionally, the BIA interprets and applies immigration laws, regulations, and precedents established by the Attorney General in deciding appeals. Its decisions serve as binding precedent for immigration judges and DHS officers in immigration proceedings nationwide.

In certain cases, the BIA has the authority to exercise discretion, such as granting relief from removal (deportation) or determining eligibility for asylum, cancellation of removal, or other forms of relief under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

The BIA’s decisions provide legal guidance and establish precedents that help ensure consistency and uniformity in the application of immigration laws and procedures by immigration judges and DHS officers across the United States.

By hearing appeals and rendering decisions at the appellate level, the BIA contributes to the efficient administration of immigration justice, helping to resolve disputes and clarify legal issues in immigration cases.