5 Myths and Realities of Immigration Bonds in Atlanta

Myth #1: Immigration bonds in Atlanta guarantee the release of detained immigrants. 

The Reality: This myth is one that is widely believed by those who have little experience with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. While immigration bonds in Atlanta can secure the release of detained immigrants, not all immigrants qualify for release on bond. In order to be granted a bond, immigrants must meet strict guidelines and criteria as determined on a case-by-case basis through the agency. Typically, this means that the immigrant cannot have previous deportations on their record, cannot pose a risk to national security or the general public, and must be free of certain criminal charges.

Myth #2: An immigration bond allows immigrants to remain in Atlanta indefinitely after their release.

The Reality: This is false. Immigration bonds in Atlanta allow immigrants to temporarily return home to their loved ones in the area; however, it does not erase the charges that have been brought against them. Some immigrants may opt for a voluntary departure immigration bond, where they are required to leave the country within 30-90 days of their release. Others may fight these charges in court but may still be removed from the country involuntarily once an immigration judge reaches a decision in their case. 

Myth #3: Immigration bonds have a fixed cost.

The Reality: Immigration bonds here and in other parts of the country do not have fixed prices. Instead, they are based on several factors like the immigrant’s risk level, criminal history, family ties, and how long they have been in the country. This means that some immigrants may be required to pay as little as $1,500 while others may need to pay upwards of $25,000 or more to be released on bond. 

Myth #4: Immigration bond costs are always refundable.

The Reality: Immigration bond costs can be refunded, but this is not always the case. In order to receive a bond refund, a bond sponsor must pay the full amount of the bond either directly to ICE or to a bond service. Those who purchase a surety bond that only requires them to pay a small percentage of the immigration bond cost will not receive a refund. If the bond is paid in full, the immigrant must also abide by all of the terms and conditions of their bond until their case concludes in the court system. If these conditions are met, an immigration bond can be refunded, but it may take several months or more to receive through ICE, and this can be a notoriously difficult process. Paying through a bond service, such as US Immigration Bonds, guarantees a faster refund process once the case has been resolved. 

Myth #5: Immigration bonds can be paid by anyone.

The Reality: In order to pay a bond through the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in Atlanta or elsewhere in the country, bond sponsors must meet certain requirements. Most importantly, they must be legal, permanent residents of the United States and be able to show proof of their citizenship and identity. This means that other immigrants, without proper documentation, cannot pay for a bond for a detained immigrant through the agency. 

Have other questions or want to learn more about immigration bonds in Atlanta? Contact the experts at US Immigration Bonds today for assistance.