6.1 - Appeals Generally

The Board of Immigration Appeals has nationwide jurisdiction to review decisions of immigration judges.  See 8 C.F.R. § 1003.1, (Relationship to the Board of Immigration Appeals).  Accordingly, appeals of immigration judge decisions should be made to the Board.  Appeals of immigration judge decisions are distinct from motions to reopen or motions to reconsider, which are filed with the immigration court following a decision ending proceedings.  See Chapter 5 (Motions before the Immigration Court).

This chapter is limited to appeals from the decisions of immigration judges in removal, deportation, and exclusion proceedings.  Other kinds of appeals are discussed in the following chapters:

Chapter 7     Other Proceedings before Immigration Judges         

Chapter 9     Detention and Bond

Chapter 10   Discipline of Practitioners

For detailed guidance on appeals, parties should consult the Board of Immigration Appeals Practice Manual.