What Happens If You Miss an Immigration Court Hearing? In-Absentia Removal Orders Rose 31% in 2025

By Kyle Eggleston, Founder · July 4, 2026

In-absentia removal orders — issued when someone doesn't appear for their scheduled hearing — rose up 31% in 2025, according to TRAC Reports.

Important: Missing a scheduled hearing risks a removal order issued in absence — even if the case has merit. Anyone who moves must update their address with the immigration court within five business days.

A judge can order removal in your absence even if your case has merit — the hearing itself is what triggers the order. This makes tracking your hearing date, and keeping your address current with the court, essential.

Do this now

Check your hearing status through the EOIR automated case status hotline at 800-898-7180. If you've already missed a hearing, reopening a case is sometimes possible in limited circumstances — speak with a licensed immigration attorney promptly.

See the immigration court backlog data

This article provides general information for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration law changes frequently — speak with a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation.

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Kyle Eggleston is the founder of ChicagoImmigrationLawyer.net; his first job in Chicago was in immigration offices, and he later worked for immigration attorneys.