What information should be included on an immigration court witness list?
Last reviewed: August 31, 2026
High-volatility procedure. Follow current EOIR requirements and any deadline or order issued by the Immigration Judge.
EOIR's current rules say a witness list should identify each witness other than the respondent and include specific information that helps the court understand the proposed testimony.
For each witness, include the name, A-number if applicable, a written summary of the testimony, the estimated length of testimony, and the language in which the witness will testify. If the person will testify as an expert, include a curriculum vitae or resume.
The witness-list filing package also has formatting requirements. EOIR's current document guidance describes a package that includes the required appearance form when applicable, a cover page, the witness list, and Proof of Service.
Do not use a vague summary such as “will testify about my case” when a truthful factual description can be more useful. At the same time, do not script testimony or put words in a witness's mouth. The summary should describe the subject matter the witness is genuinely expected to address.
Witness lists are subject to filing deadlines and Immigration Judge orders. If a witness changes, becomes unavailable, or a new witness is identified, check whether and how an updated list must be filed.
This article intentionally combines the basic “what is a witness list?” question with what belongs on it so the site has one complete resource instead of competing duplicate pages.
Official sources
- DOJ EOIR — Documents and Witness Lists: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/policy-manual-eoir/part-II/icpm/chapter-2-3
- DOJ EOIR — Individual Calendar Hearing: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/policy-manual-eoir/part-II/icpm/chapter-3-15
- DOJ EOIR — Delivery and Receipt: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/policy-manual-eoir/part-II/icpm/chapter-2-1