If removal proceedings are administratively closed, who maintains jurisdiction?

When removal proceedings are administratively closed, jurisdiction is maintained by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). This means that while the case is on hold, EOIR still has authority over the proceedings. Administrative closure allows the case to be paused without a final decision being made, but it does not transfer jurisdiction to another entity. EOIR remains responsible for overseeing the case and can reopen it in the future if necessary.

In contrast, USCIS generally deals with applications for immigration benefits rather than removal proceedings. The Department of State’s role primarily involves visa issuance and consular processing, while federal courts typically handle appeals of EOIR decisions, not jurisdiction over ongoing proceedings. Therefore, EOIR’s continued jurisdiction during administrative closure underscores its central role in the immigration adjudication process.