What is required to appeal an immigration removal order?

Filing an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) is the correct procedure for challenging an immigration removal order. The BIA is the highest administrative body for interpreting and applying immigration laws, and it serves as a crucial mechanism for individuals seeking to contest decisions made in immigration court.

To successfully appeal a removal order, a respondent must file a Notice of Appeal with the BIA, typically within a specific timeframe, often 30 days from the date of the decision. This process allows for a structured review of the case, where the BIA examines the record of proceedings and relevant legal standards to determine if the initial decision was made in accordance with immigration law.

In contrast, the other options provided do not represent valid or appropriate routes for appealing a removal order. Seeking legal representation in federal court does not directly address the appeal process, as appeals typically go through the BIA first before potentially reaching federal court. Requesting a review from local law enforcement is not applicable, as local law enforcement does not have jurisdiction over immigration matters. Similarly, submitting a written complaint to the ICE office does not invoke the formal mechanisms in place for appealing a removal order; it represents a different process entirely that does not lead to a reevaluation of the removal decision.