Immigration
New York Immigration Courts — A Practical Guide
If you or a family member has a hearing at a New York immigration court, this guide explains where to go, what ID you now need to get in, how to prepare, and what to expect. Our office at 305 Broadway is directly across the street from the Broadway Immigration Court — you are welcome to stop in for a free consultation before or after your hearing.
The Manhattan immigration courts
New York — Federal Plaza
26 Federal Plaza, New York, NY 10278
Non-detained cases
New York — Broadway
290 Broadway, New York, NY 10007
Directly across from our office
New York — Varick Street
201 Varick Street, New York, NY 10014
Detained cases
Check your hearing date first
Hearings are sometimes rescheduled or moved between courts. Confirm your date, time, and courtroom shortly before you go — using either channel below.
EOIR automated hotline (several languages) · You will need your A-Number — the 8- or 9-digit alien registration number printed on your immigration notices.
ID to enter the building (REAL ID rules)
Both courts are inside federal buildings with airport-style security. Since REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025, the guard may turn away a regular state ID. Bring one of these:
- A valid passport — U.S. or foreign (the most reliable option for immigrants)
- A REAL ID-compliant state license or ID (it has a star in the top corner)
- A Permanent Resident Card (green card) or Employment Authorization Document (work permit)
⚠️ A standard (non-REAL ID) driver’s license or an NYC municipal ID (IDNYC) may no longer be enough on its own to enter a federal building. When in doubt, bring your passport. Requirements change — confirm before you go.
What to bring to your hearing
- Your hearing notice and your photo ID (see above)
- Your A-Number and all immigration paperwork you have received
- Everything you or your lawyer have filed with the court
- Your evidence — originals and copies, with certified English translations
Getting there & security
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early — the security line can be long
- No weapons or sharp objects; silence your phone inside the courtroom
- The court provides an interpreter for the hearing — check that your language is correct in your file beforehand
Master hearing vs. individual hearing
Master calendar hearing
A short scheduling appearance, usually with many people in the room. The judge confirms your information, takes your pleadings, and sets deadlines and future dates. It typically lasts only minutes.
Individual (merits) hearing
The full trial of your case: testimony, evidence, and legal argument, usually ending in a decision. Preparation should begin months in advance — this is the hearing that decides your case.
If you miss your hearing
Missing an immigration hearing can result in a removal (deportation) order issued in absentia — in your absence. If this happens, act immediately: in limited circumstances a motion to reopen may be possible, and deadlines are strict. Get legal help right away.
Do you need a lawyer?
Unlike criminal court, the immigration court does not appoint a free lawyer. You may hire an attorney or look for pro bono help — but people with representation navigate pleadings, deadlines, and applications for relief far more effectively.
Our attorneys appear at the Manhattan immigration courts regularly and handle cases in English, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish. The first consultation is free — stop by before or after your hearing.
Immigration court — frequently asked questions
Where is the New York immigration court located? +
As of 2026 there are two Manhattan courts for non-detained cases: 26 Federal Plaza (New York, NY 10278) and 290 Broadway (New York, NY 10007). Your hearing notice says which one your case is assigned to.
What ID do I need to enter the immigration court? +
A federally acceptable photo ID for the building’s security. Since May 7, 2025, bring a valid passport (U.S. or foreign), a REAL ID-compliant license, or a green card / work permit. A regular non-REAL ID license or NYC municipal ID may not be accepted — bring your passport to be safe.
How do I find out my hearing date? +
Call the EOIR automated line at 1-800-898-7180 or check acis.eoir.justice.gov using your A-Number. Recheck shortly before the date, as hearings are sometimes rescheduled.
What is a master calendar hearing? +
A short scheduling appearance before the judge: pleadings are taken and deadlines and future dates are set. The full trial of your case happens later, at an individual hearing.
What happens if I miss my hearing? +
The judge can order removal in absentia. In limited circumstances a motion to reopen may be possible — contact a lawyer immediately, because strict deadlines apply.
Will the court give me a free lawyer? +
No. Immigration court does not appoint counsel. You may hire an attorney or seek pro bono help. Our office across the street from the Broadway court offers a free first consultation in English, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.
Kulik Law Firm, P.C. is a private law firm. We are not part of, and are not affiliated with, the immigration courts, EOIR, DHS, or any government agency. This page is general information current as of 2026, not legal advice; court locations, security rules, procedures, and contact details change — confirm current information on your hearing notice, at justice.gov/eoir, or with an attorney.