Does Posting an Immigration Bond End the Legal Process?

When immigrants are detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, posting an immigration bond allows families to reunite. Despite this, many immigrants and their loved ones are unsure of what happens after they are released. One of the biggest questions they have is regarding the legal processes that occur after a bond is posted. The outcome can vary, but this depends on the type of immigration bond that the immigrant is released on.

Types of Immigration Bonds

There are two different types of immigration bonds that may be offered to detained immigrants by ICE. The most popular option is known as a delivery bond. The delivery bond allows the immigrant to remain in the United States with their loved ones while their case continues to be processed through the court system. These bonds typically cost anywhere between $1,500 to upwards of $25,000 or more, depending on the immigrant’s criminal history, family ties and how long they have been in the United States. 

The other option is known as a voluntary departure bond. Voluntary departure bonds act as an agreement that the immigrant will leave the country within a specified timeframe after their release. Typically, this is a period of 30-90 days, which gives the immigrant time to get their affairs in order in the U.S. and in their home country. It also allows them to arrange travel back to their homeland, as they must finance this on their own. Voluntary departure bonds may be less expensive, starting at around $500, but again, the cost varies widely depending on individual risk factors. 

What Happens After a Delivery Bond is Posted?

When posting an immigration bond that allows the immigrant to remain in the country, the legal process does not end. The immigrant still faces the charges that have been brought against them and the charges will continue to process through the court system. As part of the immigration bond agreement, immigrants must continue to appear in court or at the ICE facility as required. If they fail to do so, they can be arrested and held in detainment–without the possibility of bond–until the case reaches a conclusion. When the case concludes, the courts may deem that the immigrant can remain in the U.S., or they may deport the individual. This will prevent re-entry into the United States in the future.

What Happens After a Voluntary Departure Bond is Posted?

After a voluntary departure bond is posted, the immigrant is released from detainment. Like a delivery bond, they must abide by all of the requirements associated with their bond. Typically in this instance, this means that they must leave the country within the timeframe determined by the agency. For example, they may be required to leave the country within 30 days. If they leave on their own as required, the legal process ends, and no deportation is recorded on their record. While they may be unable to return to the U.S. for 10 years or more, they may be able to return in the future following the proper protocols.  In the event that they fail to leave the country in the timeframe that is required, they will face additional charges and will likely be removed from the country with a deportation on their record. 

Have questions about delivery bonds, voluntary departure bonds, or posting an immigration bond in general? Reach out to the experts at US Immigration Bonds today for assistance.