A Master Calendar Hearing is one of the first steps in the immigration court process. While it’s not a trial or the final decision on your case, it sets the stage for everything that follows. For many immigrants in Alexandria and Annandale immigration courts, attending this hearing can feel overwhelming.

At Law Group International, we understand the stress of facing removal proceedings. This guide explains what happens at a master calendar hearing, what documents to bring, and how to prepare so you feel more confident on your court date.

What Is a Master Calendar Hearing?

The master calendar hearing in immigration court serves several important purposes. According to the EOIR and the U.S. Department of Justice, during this hearing the judge will:

Advise you of your legal rights and obligations
Explain the charges against you in plain language
Take your pleadings (whether you admit or deny the allegations)
Narrow down the issues in your case
Set deadlines for filings (applications, evidence, witness lists)
Schedule your individual (merits) hearing
Warn you about the consequences of missing court
Inform you of your right to appeal

This process applies to asylum master hearings, removal proceedings, and most non-detained cases in Northern Virginia. For legal guidance tailored to your case, visit our Deportation Defense page.

Notice to Appear (NTA) and Your First Master Calendar

The process begins when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issues a Notice to Appear (NTA).

By law, EOIR cannot schedule your first hearing until 10 days after service of the NTA, unless you waive that waiting period.
Sometimes the hearing date is printed on the NTA, but often it is mailed separately.
Due to backlogs in Alexandria, delays are common.

Must-Do Before Your Hearing:

Confirm your address with Form EOIR-33
Bring all notices you have received

If you fail to update your address, you risk a removal order in absentia (ordered removed without being present).

What Happens During the Hearing (Step by Step)

A master calendar hearing usually follows a structured sequence:

Your case is called and recorded
The judge confirms your identity (name, A-number, address)
An interpreter is provided if requested
You respond to the charges against you (pleadings)
The judge asks what relief you are seeking (such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or family-based relief)
Deadlines are set for applications, evidence, and witness lists
A biometrics order may be issued
The merits hearing is scheduled

Bring these items to your master hearing:

Government-issued ID
Any notices from DHS or the court
Interpreter request (if needed)
A list of relief you intend to seek (e.g., asylum, cancellation of removal, family-based petition)

If You’re Unrepresented (Pro Se): Your Rights and Options

You have the right to an attorney, but the government will not provide one for you.

Options include:

Asking the judge for a continuance to find counsel
Receiving a list of pro bono (free) legal aid providers
Proceeding without an attorney (not recommended)

Even without an attorney, judges may still require pleadings at your first hearing. If you need immediate help, contact Law Group International for same-day consultations.

If You Have an Attorney: E-Registry, EOIR-28, Written Pleadings

If you retain a lawyer, your attorney must:

File Form EOIR-28 (Notice of Appearance)
Submit Form EOIR-33 if your address changes
Serve copies of filings to DHS/OPLA
In some cases, file written pleadings in advance

The Immigration Court Practice Manual provides guidance on pleading requirements.

How to Prepare (Checklist & Documents)

Use this checklist to prepare for your master calendar hearing:

Review your Notice to Appear carefully
Watch a sample master calendar hearing video
Organize your documents in a labeled folder
Write down questions for the judge
Confirm if you need an interpreter
Practice saying the relief you plan to request (e.g., asylum, waiver)
Plan your travel time: arrive at least 30 minutes early

Alexandria / Northern Virginia Logistics: Annandale Immigration Court

The new Annandale Immigration Court is open as of 2025:

📍 7619 Little River Turnpike, Suite 400, Annandale, VA 22003
Official EOIR Court Page

Tips for arrival:

Arrive at least 30 minutes early
Expect airport-style security
Some hearings may be conducted by Webex, check your ACIS profile for details

After the Master Calendar: Deadlines, Biometrics & Merits Hearing

Following your master hearing, the judge will typically set deadlines such as:

Deadline Type	Common Timeline
Application for Relief	30–60 days
Supporting Exhibits	30 days before IH
Witness List	30 days before IH
Briefs (optional)	Judge’s discretion

Biometrics must be completed by the application deadline.
The individual hearing is usually scheduled 6 – 12+ months later, depending on Alexandria’s court backlog.

FAQs – Master Calendar Hearings

- Do I need a lawyer for a master calendar hearing?
  No, but going alone is risky. Judges may still require pleadings at your first hearing.
- What if I miss my hearing?
  You may be ordered removed in absentia. Call 1-800-898-7180 immediately and seek legal help to explore motions to reopen.
- Can I appear by video or phone?
  Some judges allow remote hearings. Check your ACIS portal or EOIR’s hearing directory.

How do I confirm my hearing date and location?

Online: EOIR Automated Case Information Web Portal
Phone: 1-800-898-7180 (enter your A-number)

Will I have an interpreter?
Yes. The court provides a certified interpreter if requested in advance.

Talk to a Local Deportation Defense Attorney

Facing a master calendar hearing before the Alexandria or Annandale immigration courts? Don’t go through it alone.

At Law Group International, we provide:

Same-day preparation consults
Bilingual assistance (English, Spanish, Farsi, Dari)
Experience with Northern Virginia immigration judges
Familiarity with DHS/OPLA Alexandria

Visit our Deportation Defense service to schedule your confidential consultation today.