What is the role of the FOD with respect to Admin. Stay approvals?

The role of the Field Office Director (FOD) with respect to Administrative Stay approvals is primarily to approve requests for an Administrative Stay of Removal. An Administrative Stay is a temporary suspension of a removal order, which allows individuals to remain in the United States for a specified period, usually while their application for relief is being processed or reviewed. The FOD has the authority to evaluate the merits of these requests and determine whether the circumstances justify providing the stay.

This role is critical, as it helps to ensure that individuals who may have legal grounds to remain in the U.S. are given the opportunity to present their cases without the immediate threat of deportation. By approving these stays, the FOD plays an essential part in maintaining fairness in the immigration process and allows time for further legal evaluation and potential adjustments to individual cases.