Receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) means the government has initiated removal proceedings against you, but it does not mean deportation is automatic. You will have the opportunity to appear before an immigration judge and respond to the charges listed in the NTA. The first hearing, often called a master calendar hearing, is generally procedural. The judge will confirm your identity, review the allegations, and ask whether you intend to seek relief from removal, such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status.

Removal proceedings provide you with the right to present defenses or request relief if you qualify. During the initial hearing, you may request time to find legal representation if you do not already have one. The judge will set deadlines for filing applications and schedule future hearings. It is important to attend every court date, as failure to appear can result in an automatic removal order in your absence.