Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
About This Page
This page provides general guidance on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and how individuals can request information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or other federal agencies. This information may be useful for individuals seeking records related to their applications, employment history, or other CBP-related matters.
What is FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that allows the public to request access to federal agency records. It promotes transparency by ensuring that agency operations, policies, decisions, and procedures are accessible to the public—with certain exemptions to protect personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement operations.
How to Submit a FOIA Request
90 K ST NE MS 1181
Washington, DC 20229
Note: Online submissions are strongly encouraged since mailed requests require manual processing, which may increase response times.
Information Required for a FOIA Request
When submitting a FOIA request, provide the following details to help expedite processing:
Common FOIA Requests
For a comprehensive list of common FOIA requests and the responsible agency/program office, visit the CBP FOIA page.
Fees
While there is no fee to file a FOIA request, certain requesters may incur costs:
FOIA Appeals
If you are unsatisfied with the response to your FOIA request, you have the right to file an appeal:
FOIA Appeals, Policy and Litigation Branch
90 K Street NE
Washington, DC 20229
Additional Resources
For any additional questions or accessibility assistance, contact the CBP FOIA Office at (202) 325-0150 or email [email protected].
Important Disclaimer: HonorFirst.com is an independent educational resource and does not process FOIA requests, provide legal assistance, or act as an intermediary for CBP FOIA requests. We are not affiliated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While we strive to provide accurate information, FOIA procedures and policies are subject to change. Individuals seeking official guidance should visit CBP’s FOIA website or contact CBP directly for the most up-to-date information.
This page provides general guidance on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and how individuals can request information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or other federal agencies. This information may be useful for individuals seeking records related to their applications, employment history, or other CBP-related matters.
What is FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that allows the public to request access to federal agency records. It promotes transparency by ensuring that agency operations, policies, decisions, and procedures are accessible to the public—with certain exemptions to protect personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement operations.
How to Submit a FOIA Request
- Online via SecureRelease Portal
- Visit the FOIA SecureRelease portal to submit your request directly to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
- Creating a SecureRelease account allows you to submit and track your FOIA request efficiently.
- By Mail:
- Send your written request to:
90 K ST NE MS 1181
Washington, DC 20229
Note: Online submissions are strongly encouraged since mailed requests require manual processing, which may increase response times.
Information Required for a FOIA Request
When submitting a FOIA request, provide the following details to help expedite processing:
- Personal Records Requests: Include your full name, date of birth, and mailing address, along with a signed Certification of Identity form or a perjury statement confirming your identity.
- Third-Party Requests: If requesting information on someone else’s behalf, include a signed G-28 form (for attorneys) or notarized consent from the individual whose records are being requested.
- Detailed Description: The more specific your request, the faster it can be processed. Include dates, times, officer names, certificate numbers, and document types whenever possible.
Common FOIA Requests
- Personal Records: International travel records, apprehensions/detentions by Border Patrol, secondary inspections at ports of entry.
- Agency Information: Policies, data, communications, and other operational records.
For a comprehensive list of common FOIA requests and the responsible agency/program office, visit the CBP FOIA page.
Fees
While there is no fee to file a FOIA request, certain requesters may incur costs:
- Commercial Requesters: May be charged for searching, reviewing, and photocopying records.
- Non-commercial Requesters: Charged for photocopying after the first 100 pages and for search time exceeding two hours.
FOIA Appeals
If you are unsatisfied with the response to your FOIA request, you have the right to file an appeal:
- Submit via FOIA SecureRelease portal: Follow the instructions to file an appeal online.
- By Mail: Send your appeal within 90 days of the final response letter to:
FOIA Appeals, Policy and Litigation Branch
90 K Street NE
Washington, DC 20229
Additional Resources
- CBP FOIA Reading Room: Check if the records you need are already publicly available.
- CBP Information Center: For further assistance, visit the CBP Help Information Center or call (877) 227-5511 (U.S.) or (202) 325-8000 (International).
For any additional questions or accessibility assistance, contact the CBP FOIA Office at (202) 325-0150 or email [email protected].
Important Disclaimer: HonorFirst.com is an independent educational resource and does not process FOIA requests, provide legal assistance, or act as an intermediary for CBP FOIA requests. We are not affiliated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While we strive to provide accurate information, FOIA procedures and policies are subject to change. Individuals seeking official guidance should visit CBP’s FOIA website or contact CBP directly for the most up-to-date information.
