Delivery vs. Departure Immigration Bonds in Texas: What’s the Difference?

In the complex world of immigration law in Texas, several legal procedures are designed to manage the movement of individuals into and out of the United States. Among these procedures, one of the most crucial is the immigration bond—a financial guarantee that allows a detained immigrant to be released while their case is pending.

But did you know that not all immigration bonds are the same? In fact, they fall into two major categories: delivery bonds and departure bonds. If you’re unsure which one is right for your situation, read on to discover the key differences.

What Is a Delivery Immigration Bond?

A delivery immigration bond is issued when an immigrant chooses to fight their immigration case and remain in the United States during the legal process. This type of bond allows the individual to be released from ICE custody under the condition that they attend all court hearings and ICE check-ins until a final decision is made.

Key Features of a Delivery Bond:

• The immigrant remains in the U.S. while their case is reviewed.

• The person must cooperate with ICE and appear at all hearings.

• Failing to appear may lead to bond forfeiture and possible re-arrest.

• A judge determines whether the immigrant is allowed to stay or will face removal.

This bond is ideal for individuals who have a strong case or family ties in the U.S. and wish to explore every legal option to remain in the country.

What Is a Departure Immigration Bond?

A departure immigration bond, also called a voluntary departure bond, allows the immigrant to leave the U.S. voluntarily within a set timeframe—usually 30 to 90 days—at their own expense. Once the bond is paid and the person departs as agreed, the full bond amount is refunded.

Key Features of a Departure Bond:

• The individual agrees to leave voluntarily without going through a full court hearing.

• Bond amounts typically start around $500 but can go much higher.

• If the person follows through with the departure, the bond is returned in full.

• This option helps avoid formal deportation, which can impact future immigration chances.

A departure bond is a wise choice for immigrants who believe they will be removed anyway and prefer to leave on their own terms. Voluntary departure generally has less long-term impact on future reentry attempts than a forced removal.

Choosing the Right Bond: What Should You Consider?

When deciding between a delivery bond and a departure bond, ask these questions:

• Do you have a realistic chance of winning your case before an immigration judge?

• Can you afford to stay in the U.S. while attending multiple hearings?

• Would leaving voluntarily now make it easier to reenter the U.S. in the future?

Choosing the right option depends on your individual circumstances. That’s why it's so important to work with a knowledgeable immigration bond professional who can walk you through the process.

Get Help with Immigration Bonds in Texas

Understanding the difference between bond types is essential—but having the right help can make all the difference. If you’re seeking immigration bonds in Houston, Texas, or anywhere in the state, reach out to Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds.

With years of experience, the team at Amistad offers personalized support to help you or your loved one choose the best bond option and navigate the legal process smoothly.

📍 Learn more about the requirements for bond eligibility on our Eligibility and Requirements page.

Need help calculating your estimated bond cost? Use the free Bond Calculator to get started.