Immigration Bonds: What Are They and How Do They Work?

When an illegal immigrant is taken into custody by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement), a judge is assigned to the case.  If the detainee qualifies, the judge will then set bail that must be paid to secure a temporary release from custody.  Each state’s rules vary, but here in PA, the immigration bond amount is usually between $5,000 and $15,000 and must be paid in full.  Immigration bonds, which cover the cost of the bond, provide for the detainee’s release from holding while the case is in progress.

What is an Immigration Bond?

An immigration bond is a financial guarantee paid to secure a temporary release when an illegal immigrant is detained by the authorities.  The bail bond money is returned after the defendant has appeared at all required court hearings and complied with the legal requirements necessary.

Who is eligible for an Immigration Bond?

Many illegal immigrants who have been detained by ICE are eligible for an immigration bond.  This includes those who have entered the country without valid documents, those who have overstayed a visa, violated a visa or residency terms, or those with pending removal proceedings.  ICE commonly detains illegal immigrants at U.S. ports of entry, during traffic stops, or in homes or businesses.

Are there conditions with Immigration Bonds?

In addition to paying the money required to secure your or your loved one’s temporary release, there might be additional conditions that ICE might enforce.  It’s possible that a GPS monitoring device, such as an ankle shackle, must be worn by the detainee.  They might be required to report to officials regularly, either in person or by phone.  

How long does the immigration bond process take?

The length of the immigration bond process can vary, based on factors such as how busy the court is or how complex the particular case is.  Usually, the time frame ranges between several days to several weeks.

The process begins with ICE detaining the individual.  A bond hearing may then be requested, and if granted, a judge will then determine whether a bond may be issued and will set the bond amount.  The judge will determine the bond amount based on multiple factors, including the defendant’s immigration history, flight risk, criminal background, and community ties.

What are your options to pay the bond?

There are two ways to pay the immigration bond: cash or surety bond.  If you’re able to pay cash, you can pay the full amount directly to ICE or use their online portal.  The money will be returned if the detainee meets all court requirements.  If paying cash is not an option, you can obtain a surety bond or bond guarantee service. A surety bond means that an immigration bond provider posts the bond for you in return for a fee, typically a percentage of the bond amount.

Contact Delco for Help with Your Immigration Bonds

Delco Bail Bonds is ready to help with your immigration bond needs.  Just fill out our simple referral form, and we will quickly put you in touch with an experienced immigration bond professional with expertise in Pennsylvania immigration bonds.  Instead of spending hours looking for a trusted immigration bond provider during an already stressful time, let us put you in touch with trusted professionals.