Immigration bail bonds

In the United States, immigration bail bonds allow a person detained by ICE to be released from a detention center while their case continues in court. They do not resolve the immigration case, but they offer temporary freedom in exchange for following strict rules and attending all hearings.

---

This guide explains the types of immigration bonds available, who may qualify, how much they typically cost, how they are paid today (including CeBONDS), how to recover the money, the most common mistakes, and recent legal changes.

Updated Guide to Immigration Bail Bonds in the United States

An immigration bail bond is a payment that allows a person detained by ICE to be released while their deportation case proceeds before the immigration court.

The purpose of the bond is to ensure that the immigrant:

• Attends all scheduled hearings.
• Complies with the orders of the judge and ICE.

If these obligations are not met, ICE may keep the bond and the judge may issue an order of removal for failure to appear.

At Lluis Law, we handle these matters with our team of immigration lawyers specializing in deportation and our Los Angeles immigration court representation team.

2026 Update: Most payments are now processed through CeBONDS. Additionally, ICE’s national policy and the Matter of Yajure Hurtado decision have restricted who may request a bond hearing, especially individuals present in the U.S. without admission.

Who Is Eligible for an Immigration Bail Bond?

To obtain an immigration bail bond, ICE and the judge primarily evaluate two things: whether the person poses a danger to the community and whether they present a flight risk.

The new ICE policies and Matter of Yajure Hurtado have limited bond hearings for many immigrants who entered without inspection.

Even so, several federal courts have blocked strict enforcement of these rules in certain jurisdictions. More than ever, each case must be evaluated carefully based on the court’s location.

Individuals Who Generally Qualify

Generally, individuals who qualify for an immigration bail bond include those who:

• Have no recent serious criminal convictions.
• Are detained but have family, stable employment, or strong community ties.
• Have a history of compliance with prior immigration proceedings.
• Do not fall within the expanded mandatory detention categories implemented in 2025.

Individuals Who Usually Do Not Qualify

Those who generally do not qualify for a bond include individuals who:

• Are subject to mandatory detention (certain crimes, specific entry classifications, etc.).
• Have prior deportations or outstanding final removal orders.
• Are classified as “arriving aliens,” where the judge lacks jurisdiction to issue a bond.
• Are present without admission and restricted under ICE’s 2025 national policy and Matter of Yajure Hurtado, except in limited circumstances or litigation-supported jurisdictions.

Even with an initial “no bond,” some cases may be reviewed if new evidence arises, the person is not actually subject to mandatory detention, or the case belongs to a jurisdiction challenging current policies.

Types of Immigration Bail Bonds: Delivery, Voluntary Departure, and Supervision

There are three types of immigration bail bonds, depending on the circumstances of the case. Understanding these options helps families know what ICE or the judge may offer.

1. Delivery Bond

This is the most common bond and the one most families seek, since it allows the immigrant to leave detention while their case proceeds in court. In exchange, the person must attend all hearings, comply with court orders, and follow ICE requirements.

For many families, this bond means reuniting with their loved one while they fight their case from outside detention.

2. Voluntary Departure Bond

This bond applies when the person agrees to depart the United States voluntarily within a specified timeframe:

• If the person departs on time, ICE refunds the bond.
• It is often chosen by individuals who no longer have legal defenses available or prefer to avoid a removal order.
• In some cases, it may be the most strategic option.

3. Order of Supervision Bond

Sometimes ICE releases a person under strict supervision. This may require regular reporting, updating address information, appearing for appointments, and following additional conditions.

In such cases, ICE may require a bond to ensure compliance.

At the same time, many families explore legal defenses to avoid removal, such as cancellation of removal or withholding of removal, which may also influence how a judge evaluates flight risk.

Table: Types of Immigration Bonds and Key Characteristics

Bond Type	Purpose	Minimum Amount	Refunded if…
Delivery Bond	Release and continue the case while free	$1,500	All hearings and court orders are complied with
Voluntary Departure Bond	Depart the U.S. voluntarily within a deadline	$500	Departure occurs within the required timeframe
Order of Supervision Bond	Release with strict reporting and conditions	Varies	All reporting conditions are met until case closure

How Much Is an Immigration Bond in 2026? Costs and Factors

There is no fixed price for an immigration bail bond. However, in practice, certain ranges are common:

• Delivery Bond: legal minimum of $1,500, but in 2026 typical amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000 in cases without criminal history.
• Voluntary Departure Bond: typically ranges from $500 to around $5,000.
• Individuals with criminal history or multiple prior entries may receive bond amounts between $20,000 and $35,000.

Example: An immigrant with no criminal history, a spouse and children in the U.S., stable employment, and a fixed address often receives a mid-range delivery bond. Having an active family petition may also help lower the amount by reducing concerns of flight risk.

Factors That Increase or Decrease Bond Amounts

Factors that may influence the bond amount include:

• Active legal pathways: such as family petitions, consular processing, or other applications showing a genuine intent to resolve the case.
• Flight risk: stable address, past attendance at hearings, and compliance with check-ins.
• Danger to the community: certain offenses may trigger mandatory detention.
• Strong U.S. ties: children, steady employment, education, volunteer work, and verified support letters.

Many immigrants also consider whether they may later qualify for adjustment of status, for example through a family petition, which reinforces the idea that they will continue attending court.

How to Request a Bond Hearing

Requesting a bond hearing can be fast and overwhelming. Denials frequently occur when evidence is incomplete or the sponsor is unprepared.

This guide applies to individuals who still qualify for a bond hearing before an immigration judge — meaning they are not subject to mandatory detention and their case can be reviewed under current rules and Matter of Yajure Hurtado.

Step 1: Request the Hearing

If ICE sets a very high bond or marks the case as “no bond,” the individual may request a hearing during their first appearance. All that is required is:

• That the law does not impose mandatory detention.
• That the judge has jurisdiction based on the case classification.

It is not necessary to wait for ICE to submit all evidence. If the case is already filed with the court, the request may be made immediately.

Step 2: Gather Solid Evidence

Bonds are decided on clear evidence. The more stability a person demonstrates, the better the chances of obtaining a reasonable bond. Useful evidence includes:

• Lease agreements or utility bills.
• Pay stubs or employer letters.
• Medical documents for dependents.
• Support letters with ID copies.

Well-organized evidence shows the judge that the person has a real home, family, and community ties.

Step 3: Present a Suitable Sponsor

The sponsor must present a clear plan regarding where the immigrant will live and how they will ensure attendance at hearings. Ideally, the sponsor should have:

• Stable legal status (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident).
• A fixed address and financial stability.
• Availability to attend the hearing.

The law does not require legal status, but in practice judges place greater trust in sponsors who are citizens or permanent residents.

For additional detail, see How to Fill Out Form I-130 and How to Get a Green Card.

Step 4: Request More Time if Evidence Is Missing

Bond hearings are sometimes scheduled quickly. If the family does not have all required documents, it is advisable to request a continuance. Appearing without sufficient evidence often results in high bond amounts or denial.

Step 5: Await the Judge’s Decision

The judge may:

• Maintain ICE’s original bond amount.
• Reduce or increase it.
• Deny the bond.

If the decision seems unjust or new evidence arises, it may be appealed to the BIA or a new hearing may be requested due to changed circumstances. For more information, see our section on the immigration appeal process.

Bond Hearing Document Checklist

In 2026, the most impactful documents include:

• Identification from the letter writer: every support letter must include a copy of ID (driver’s license, passport, or green card).
• Sponsor documentation: signed letter, proof of legal status, and income documents.
• Family ties: birth certificates, marriage certificates, photos, and medical records of dependents.
• Financial and residential stability: pay stubs, W-2s, lease agreements, tax returns.
• Community involvement: letters from religious leaders, teachers, supervisors, or proof of volunteer work.

Individuals who are already pursuing legal defenses often supplement this evidence with programs like NACARA or various waivers of inadmissibility to show they have an active legal pathway.

What Happens After Release: Obligations Under an Immigration Bond

Once released, the bond remains active. Several obligations must be followed to avoid complications and to ensure the money can be refunded later.

Main Requirements After Release

• Attend all immigration court hearings punctually.
• Maintain a stable address and report any changes to both ICE and the court.
• Comply with all court orders and appear when required.
• Cooperate with the sponsor, since this individual receives (or loses) the refund.

Who Can Pay the Bond, and What Happens if Conditions Are Not Followed?

The detainee cannot pay their own bond. The payment must be made by someone over 18 with legal status in the United States—usually a close family member or trusted person with valid documentation. If the conditions are not met, ICE may keep the full amount, the judge may issue a removal order for failure to appear, and obtaining another bond becomes difficult.

In these situations, many families consider alternatives such as voluntary departure or future pathways like family-based residency.

Where Immigration Bail Bonds Are Paid Today: CeBONDS and ICE Offices

Until recently, bond payments were processed only at ICE field offices. With the implementation of CeBONDS, most payments now occur online, speeding up the process nationwide.

CeBONDS and Basic Payment Steps

Through CeBONDS, the sponsor may verify whether the bond was approved, confirm detainee information, make the payment electronically, and receive notifications. This system can be used by U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain nonprofits, and registered law firms; detainees cannot use CeBONDS or pay directly.

In summary, today’s bond payment steps are:

1. Confirm the approved amount: ICE or the judge advises whether the person may be released and the exact amount.
2. Create a CeBONDS account: the sponsor verifies their identity and links the detainee to the account.
3. Make the payment: CeBONDS accepts only bank transfers (FedWire or ACH). ICE still allows certified checks or money orders in person at certain ERO offices when electronic payment is not possible.
4. Wait for confirmation and release: after payment and electronic signature of Form I-352, release usually occurs within 12–24 hours.
5. Save all receipts: necessary later to request the refund.

In some cases, humanitarian programs may also be considered, such as the T visa when there are risks of violence or extortion. Families often seek information on what to do if ICE shows up from the moment of arrest.

How to Recover an Immigration Bail Bond: Timeline and Common Mistakes

The bond refund is issued only if the detainee complied with all conditions throughout the case.

Who Receives the Refund and What Are the Steps?

ICE refunds the bond only to the individual who paid it (the sponsor), regardless of the final outcome of the immigration case. The standard process includes:

1. Wait for case closure: ICE does not process refunds while the case remains open.
2. Receive the “Notice to Obligor”: confirming the case is closed and authorizing the refund request.
3. Submit required documentation: updated address and identity of the sponsor.
4. Receive the refund check: typically 6–12 weeks unless errors delay the process.

Common mistakes delaying refunds: failing to update the sponsor’s address, losing the receipt number, returned mail, or the case still appearing open in the system.

In complex cases or when additional legal steps are involved, such as legal options after an ICE arrest, sponsors often need assistance before requesting the refund.

What to Do if ICE Does Not Refund the Bond or Marks “No Bond”

If ICE does not return the bond or classifies the case as “no bond,” there are specific steps to review the situation and attempt correction.

If ICE Does Not Refund the Bond

If more than 12 weeks pass without a refund, the sponsor should verify:

• Whether their address is updated.
• Whether the case is properly closed in the ERO office.
• Whether any mail was returned or information was incorrect.

In cases of administrative errors, an attorney may request corrections to expedite the refund.

If ICE Marks “No Bond”

The “no bond” classification generally applies due to mandatory detention or flight risk. After ICE’s national policy changes and Matter of Yajure Hurtado, many individuals present without admission can no longer request a bond hearing.

Possible alternatives may include:

• Requesting parole in exceptional cases.
• Litigating when the classification is incorrect.
• Proposing alternatives to detention.

If new evidence appears or the classification was mistaken, an attorney may request review.

If the Case Requires Appeal

If a judge formally denies any possibility of bond, an appeal may be filed with the BIA in some cases, particularly when errors or jurisdictional issues are involved.

If bond is ultimately not an option, some individuals consider a structured departure and later evaluate whether they may return to the United States. For that, see how to apply for reentry after deportation.

Immigration Bail Bonds in Texas and Other States

The federal bond rules are the same nationwide, but local practice varies. Texas tends to require more extensive evidence, issues more initial “no bond” classifications, and has more ERO offices that allow in-person payments when CeBONDS fails.

In other states, federal courts have begun questioning the new restrictions and ordering bond hearings for certain groups. Individuals afraid to return to their countries often seek guidance on refugee protection in the U.S..

Common Errors That Increase Bond Amounts or Lead to Denial

Most high or denied bonds are the result of poor preparation, not just the detainee’s history. Frequent mistakes include:

• Failing to provide real evidence of community ties (employment records, lease, strong family documentation).
• Submitting generic letters without identification (missing signature, contact information, or ID copy).
• Proposing a sponsor without clear legal status.
• Not specifying where the person will live, or failing to prove it with documents.
• Ignoring active legal pathways. For more information, see how to legally enter the United States.
• Past failures to appear or outdated address information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Bail Bonds

How long does release take after paying the bond?

In many detention centers, if payment is received early, release occurs within 4 to 8 hours. It may take longer if the center is conducting additional internal reviews or processing a high volume of releases.

Can the detainee pay their own bond?

No. Only a sponsor over 18 with legal status in the United States may pay the bond.

Is the money refunded if the person is eventually deported?

Yes, as long as the detainee complied with hearings and court orders. The final outcome of the case does not affect the sponsor’s right to a refund.

What if the judge sets a very high bond?

The bond may be paid or reviewed if new circumstances arise. Sometimes active legal protections—such as cases involving protection of migrant minors—help reduce the amount.

Does a bond stop deportation?

No. A bond only allows the person to continue the process outside detention. The final decision on removal always lies with the immigration judge.

How Lluis Law Can Help With Immigration Bail Bonds

Immigration bail bonds require precision, evidence, a prepared sponsor, correct payment, and proper refund procedures.

With recent policies, it is also crucial to verify whether the person remains eligible or should instead consider other legal strategies. A mistake may prolong detention or cause the sponsor to lose the bond.

At Lluis Law, with more than 60 years of combined experience in immigration detention cases, we can:

• Determine whether your family member qualifies for bond under current rules.
• Prepare all supporting evidence and the sponsor’s documentation.
• Represent them at the hearing and handle appeals when needed.
• Guide the entire payment, release, and refund process.

---

If your family member has been detained or received an ICE notice, contact us as soon as possible. We will evaluate the case and guide you through every step.