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How to Obtain an Immigration Bond: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Dealing with immigration detention can be overwhelming, especially when youโre trying to bring a loved one back home. In this guide, we break down the steps involved in the immigration bond process in a clear, easy-to-understand way. Most of what youโll read here is information thatโs hard to find online, and itโs written for real families.
While US Immigration Bonds & Insurance Services, Inc. is not a law firm and cannot assist with requesting or securing a bond amount, we can help once a bond has been granted. Thatโs where we come in to help you pay the bond fast, affordably, and with the support you need during such a stressful time.
What Is an Immigration Bond?
An immigration bond is a financial guarantee to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that the detained person, also referred to as an alien, non-citizen, or immigrant detainee will attend all required immigration court hearings and ICE appointments. Once the immigration bond is paid, the detainee is released and allowed to remain in the United States while their case continues.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility for Bond
To increase your chances of a successful outcome, itโs highly recommended to consult with an immigration attorney who specializes in deportation cases. Not all detainees qualify for an immigration bond. ICE may deny bond based on certain criminal convictions, flight risk, or if the detainee falls under mandatory detention.
If eligibility is uncertain, a bond hearing can be requested before an immigration judge. The judge may consider:
- Criminal history
- Immigration status
- Family and community ties in the U.S.
- Employment history
- Likelihood of attending future hearings
The judge has full discretion to grant, deny, or adjust the bond amount.
Step 2: Request a Bond Hearing
If ICE does not set a bond or sets one that is too high, a bond hearing can be requested. This can be done orally during the first court appearance or in writing by filing a Motion for Bond and Custody Redetermination.
Your written motion should include:
- Detaineeโs full name and A-number
- Name of the detention facility
- A statement requesting a bond hearing
Submitting this request quickly is key. Delays can result in longer detention times.
Step 3: Prepare for the Bond Hearing
Preparation is everything. You want to show the judge that the detainee is responsible and has strong ties to the community. Supporting documents are essential and may include:
- Letters of support from family, friends, or community members
- Proof of employment or job offers
- Lease agreements or proof of property ownership
- U.S. birth certificates of the detaineeโs children
- Records of community involvement or volunteer work
Having legal representation can help significantly in presenting a strong case.
Step 4: Pay the Bond
Once the bond has been granted and the amount is set, itโs time to get your loved one home. There are two ways to do this:
Option 1: Pay ICE through CeBond (Online Only)
This is ICEโs online system known as CeBONDS. Bonds must be paid in full for the detaineeโs release. Only U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can post an immigration bond directly with the government through CeBond.
To pay using CeBonds, the obligor must:
- Create an account at cebonds.ice.gov
- Upload personal ID and proof of legal status
- Submit the full payment via bank wire transfer at your bank
This process often takes a few days. Once processed, the detainee will be released with the condition that they attend all future immigration proceedings.
Option 2: Use an Immigration Bond Agency
Working with a professional immigration bond agency, like US Immigration Bonds & Insurance Services, Inc., has many advantages. You donโt need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. You also donโt have to rely on friends or family to post the bond on your behalf, which can help avoid misunderstandings or often times, loss of bond funds.
Immigration bail bond agencies can provide flexible payment options, including monthly payment plans, and If you have the full amount in cash, you can still go through a bonding agency and benefit from professional support for a minimal fee. When cash isnโt available, bonds can be secured using other forms of collateral. The better the security, the lower the cost. Less security may require more cash up front.
Plus, you get real help from real people, not an automated online system.
Step 5: Comply with Bond Conditions
After release, it is very important to follow the immigration bond conditions, which usually include:
- Attending all scheduled immigration court hearings (your attorney will notify you)
- Attending all scheduled ICE appointments (your bondsman will notify you)
- Reporting any address changes to ICE
- Avoiding any criminal activity
Not following these conditions could result in bond forfeiture or being detained again.
How US Immigration Bonds & Insurance Services, Inc. Can Help
As one of the leading immigration bond agencies in the country, we specialize in helping families like yours through this difficult process. Hereโs how we support you:
- Low-cost bonds starting at just 2% of the bond amount plus a $40 filing fee (cash bonds up to $7,500 = $190 total)
- Premium bond options with or without collateral at 15% to 20% of the bond amount, plus a $40 filing fee
- Same-day release in many cases
- Fast electronic support via text or email
- Fully bilingual services in English, Spanish, and all languages via electronic platforms
- Properly licensed in most states
Our experienced team understands the emotional and logistical challenges youโre facing, and weโre committed to helping you bring your loved one home as quickly and easily as possible.
Securing an immigration bond is one of the most important steps to protect your family during immigration proceedings. When you understand the process and have the right help by your side, everything becomes a little easier.
Check out our client reviews: Reviews โข US Immigration Bondsย
Need help now? Call us at 1-800-225-2587 or visit www.usimmigrationbonds.comย
Whether you’re looking to pay CeBond directly or want the professional support of a trusted immigration bondsman, we’re here for you.