Opinion ID: 3015645
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: the new time or place of the proceedings, and

Text: (ii) the consequences under section 1229a(b)(5) of this title of failing, except under exceptional circumstances, to attend such proceedings. 8 U.S.C. § 1229(a)(2)(A). 6 originally scheduled, giving him only thirteen days notice. Further, Mr. Ngalim asserts that after receiving his work authorization and the NTA, “he had fewer reasons to check his mail as regularly as he did.” Pet. Br. 17. An in absentia removal order may be rescinded upon motion “if the alien demonstrates that the failure to appear was due to exceptional circumstances.” 8 U.S.C. § 1229a(b)(5)(C)(i). To establish exceptional circumstances, an alien bears the burden of demonstrating that the alien’s failure to appear at the removal hearing was due to “circumstances (such as serious illness of the alien or serious illness or death of the spouse, child, or parent of the alien, but not including less compelling circumstances) beyond the control of the alien.” 8 U.S.C. § 1229a(e)(1). Although we find Mr. Ngalim’s plight sympathetic, according to the plain language of the statute an exceptional circumstance must be one that “is beyond the control of the alien.” 8 U.S.C. § 1229a(e)(1). The frequency with which Mr. Ngalim checked his mail was within his control. Mr. Ngalim may have been taken off guard by the INS’s rescheduling of his removal hearing, but the statute expressly contemplates that it can take such action provided that it gives the alien proper and timely notice. 8 U.S.C. § 1229(a)(2). Such notice was given in this case. Thus, we conclude that Mr. Ngalim has not meet his burden of demonstrating exceptional circumstances.