Notice to Appear (NTA)

A Notice to Appear (NTA) is a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to initiate removal proceedings against a foreign national. The NTA informs the individual of the nature of the proceedings, the legal grounds for removal, and the specific allegations and charges against them. It also specifies the date, time, and location of the initial hearing before an immigration judge. The issuance of an NTA marks the formal beginning of the removal process and requires the foreign national to appear in immigration court to address the charges and present any defenses or applications for relief from removal.