USCIS A-Files

[Robert M Mandelbaum rmandelbau@aol.com]

X-No-archive: yes
Can anyone please explain to me, in childlike detail, the specific
logistical steps and considerations in obtaining A-Files? I have read
the articles and the relevant sections of the National Archives and
USCIS websites but remain confused. As best I can tell, once upon a
time, all A-Files had to be obtained through a FOIA request, but now
USCIS has the Genealogy Program, through which certain older A-Files
can be ordered for $65. Newer A-Files must continue to be ordered
through FOIA, however, which appears to cost less. Is this right so
far? But can't older A-Files also still be ordered using FOIA, and
won't that also cost less? If so, what is the advantage to ever using
the more expensive Genealogy Program at all, as opposed to always
using FOIA? I know that I must be missing something here, but I can't
figure out what it is. In addition, overlaid on all of this is that
some specific A-files have been transferred to the National Archives,
and appear in its online catalog. I imagine that any such file should
always be ordered through NARA, rather than through the more expensive
USCIS program, correct? If so, how exactly is such a NARA order placed?
Is there a form to be used? An address to which it must be mailed? Is
there a link to the form online? I have not been able to find it.
Thanks so much, and sorry for my ignorance!

Robert Mandelbaum
New York, New York
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