🚨 How to Secure an Immigration Bond for Your Loved One in ICE Custody

Is your loved one currently being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)? If so, you're likely feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and anxious to get them home. You’re not alone—and help is available.

Detention by ICE can happen suddenly, and the legal process that follows is complex. One of the most important steps you can take right now is to understand how immigration bonds work and how they can help your loved one be released while their case is pending.

At Amistad Bail Bonds, we specialize in helping families secure fast, reliable immigration bonds across the United States. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of immigration bonds, how bond amounts are determined, and how to take the first step toward freedom.

What Is an Immigration Bond?

An immigration bond is a financial guarantee to the U.S. government that a detained immigrant will attend all required court hearings and follow legal conditions. Once the bond is paid and approved, the individual can be released from ICE custody while their case proceeds in immigration court.

Not every detainee qualifies for a bond, but if they do, posting one quickly can significantly improve their chances of a successful outcome.

Can Someone Be Released Without Paying a Bond?

Yes—but it’s rare.

In some cases, ICE may choose to release a person on personal recognizance, meaning they are released without a bond. This usually happens when:

• The individual has no criminal history

• They have strong community ties

• They are not considered a flight risk

However, these types of releases are becoming increasingly uncommon. Most individuals will need to go through a bond hearing or post a bond set by ICE in order to leave detention.

Two Main Types of Immigration Bonds

When someone qualifies for release, ICE or an immigration judge will determine which type of bond applies. Here's what you need to know:

1. Delivery Bond

A delivery bond is the most common and preferred option. It is designed to:

• Allow the person to be released from custody

• Give them time to work with an attorney

• Ensure they appear at all future immigration court hearings

If the individual complies with all court dates and legal requirements, the bond amount can be refunded to the person who posted it—minus any administrative fees.

This type of bond allows people to prepare their case, support their family, and seek legal relief without being locked in a detention center.

2. Voluntary Departure Bond

A voluntary departure bond applies when an individual agrees to leave the U.S. voluntarily by a specified date. This option is typically granted to:

• First-time offenders

• Individuals who choose not to challenge their removal

Once the person leaves the country as agreed, the bond amount is refunded. If they do not leave on time, the bond is forfeited, and deportation may follow.

While this bond avoids formal removal proceedings, it is not always the best choice—especially for individuals who may have legal grounds to remain in the U.S.

How Is the Bond Amount Determined?

Immigration bonds are based largely on the individual’s flight risk—or how likely they are to skip court or fail to follow orders. ICE or a judge considers factors such as:

• Criminal history

• Length of time in the U.S.

• Employment and community ties

• Past immigration violations

• Risk to public safety

Typical Minimum Bond Amounts:

• Delivery Bond: Starts at $1,500 (but often ranges from $5,000 to $15,000)

• Voluntary Departure Bond: Starts at $500

In some cases, families may request a bond hearing to ask the court to lower the bond amount if it’s unaffordable. Working with a legal representative is essential for making this request effectively.

Why You Should Use a Licensed Bond Agent

Although you can pay the full bond amount directly to ICE, the process can be confusing and slow, and the refund can take 12 months or more. Using a state-licensed immigration bond agent like Amistad Bail Bonds offers major advantages:

• Only pay 15% of the bond (non-refundable premium)

• Faster release with fewer paperwork errors

• Help with Form I-352 and other documentation

• Support in English and Spanish

• Access to cash or property collateral bond options

Want to know what type of bond may apply in your loved one’s situation? Visit our page on immigration bonds in California to learn how we assist in states with large ICE detention centers.

What to Do If Your Loved One Is Detained by ICE

If someone you care about has been taken into custody, follow these steps:

1. Stay calm and gather information

   • Try to confirm where they’re being held

   • Note their A-number (Alien Registration Number) if available

2. Contact an immigration attorney

   • Legal advice is essential to determine bond eligibility

3. Call Amistad Bail Bonds

   • We’ll help verify the detention location and start bond paperwork immediately

4. Prepare collateral or payment

   • Depending on the bond amount, you may need to use property or offer a payment plan

5. Attend court hearings and comply with all orders

   • Compliance is key to keeping the bond in good standing and getting a refund later

Immigration Bonds Nationwide—We're Here 24/7

Whether your loved one is detained in North Carolina, Texas, Arizona, or any other state, our team is ready to act. At Amistad Bail Bonds, we work around the clock to process immigration bonds, answer questions, and support families through every step.

We’re proud to offer:

• 24/7 nationwide bond service

• Bilingual agents available to assist in Spanish and English

• Transparent pricing and flexible payment plans

• Guidance on how to request a bond hearing

• Years of experience navigating ICE detention centers and immigration courts

Need help calculating costs? Use our bond calculator tool to get a better idea of what to expect.

Final Thoughts

When someone is detained by immigration officials, the situation can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. A trusted immigration bail bond can provide immediate relief and the time needed to pursue the best legal outcome.

At Amistad Bail Bonds, we don’t just post bail—we guide families through a stressful system with compassion, urgency, and professionalism. Whether your loved one is facing removal proceedings or simply needs time to prepare a legal defense, we’re here to help you secure their freedom fast.

📞 Call us now at (800) 537-0645 or request your free consultation. We're available 24/7—because your family’s freedom shouldn’t have to wait.