Steps to Take After Receiving an NTA
July 31, 2025
A Notice to Appear (NTA) is one of the most alarming documents an immigrant can receive. It officially places you in removal proceedings, meaning the U.S. government is starting the deportation process. If you’ve recently received an NTA, this blog breaks down what it means and what steps to take next.
At McBean Law, we help clients nationwide navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law with confidence, compassion, and clarity. Led by Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy, a nationally recognized immigration attorney and 2024 & 2025 honoree of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, McBean Law brings unmatched experience in both federal policy and courtroom advocacy. Before founding the firm in 2016, Attorney McBean Pompy served at the highest levels of government—including roles with the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Congress, and federal and state courts.
What Is a Notice to Appear?
An NTA is issued by the Department of Homeland Security to initiate a case against you in immigration court. It includes the government’s charges, why they believe you’re removable—and orders you to show up before an immigration judge on a specific date and time.
You may receive an NTA if your green card application was denied, if you’re waiting for a pending appeal, or if immigration authorities believe you violated immigration laws. Under recent enforcement policies, even minor issues like overstaying a visa or having a past criminal charge can trigger the issuance of an NTA.
Understanding the NTA Document
Read your NTA carefully. Confirm that your name, address, and alien number (A#) are correct. The first page outlines the charges against you, including how you entered the U.S. and the immigration law section the government believes you violated. Look for the date, time, and location of your first court hearing—this is critical.
Some NTAs may also include additional pages that detail your immigration history, past violations, or aliases. It’s important to understand exactly what DHS is accusing you of, as sometimes errors are made in these documents.
What to Do Next
Once you’ve received an NTA, your top priority is to prepare for your court hearing. Put the hearing on your calendar and do not miss it—failure to appear usually results in an automatic removal order.
Next, hire an immigration attorney immediately. A lawyer can review your case, request your immigration records (FOIA), and advise you on possible defenses. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for relief such as cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, or asylum.
Some people worry about being arrested at the courthouse, especially in high-enforcement areas. While this fear is understandable, it’s important to know that most people are not arrested at their immigration hearing. If you’re concerned, your lawyer can help you request a video hearing instead.
You can also watch Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy’s YouTube video “Notice to Appear: What to Do Next” for a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how the NTA process works and what actions you should take immediately. In the video, you will learn what the document means, how to read it, and how to protect your rights if you’re placed in removal proceedings.
