Whether you are a professional researcher seeking historical immigration records, or you just want to learn a little bit more about your family history, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides the means to search its historical databases and request copies of any USCIS records that exist on the subject you want to learn more about.
A good starting place is Form G-1041.
Form G-1041, Genealogy Index Search Request
This form is used to search USCIS historical databases to determine whether any USCIS records exist on the subject, and obtain the file number/identifier of each record.
Once you have the file number/identifier, you may request copies of the record(s) using Form G-1041A.
Form G-1041A, Genealogy Records Request
This form is used to obtain copies of USCIS historical records by file number.
In both cases, the procedure is simple:
- Complete the form (G-1041 or G-1041A)
- Attach any required documentation (Note: Do not send originals. They will not be returned.)
- Include the fee (fees range from $20 - $35 depending on the type of request, as of March 2010)
- Mail your request to:
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Genealogy Program
P.O. Box 805925
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Things to note:
If the immigrant's date of birth is less than 100 years prior to the date of a request, you must attach documentary proof of death to the request form.
Records of naturalization prior to September 27, 1906 are not available through USCIS. You will need to consult Federal records stored at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Record Group 21, or write to the clerk of the court where the naturalization occurred.
Sea, land or air passenger manifest lists recording arrivals prior to December 1982 are also not available through USCIS. Contact NARA for these documents.
You can receive the search results via e-mail or postal mail. Records requests are also available via e-mail if the record is available in electronic format.
Source: USCIS