What Are Voluntary Departure Immigration Bonds?

Individuals who visit or permanently settle in the United States must abide by a plethora of complex laws and timelines. When certain guidelines are not met, these individuals may face repercussions that are enforced by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. The consequences vary widely based on the specific circumstances of the case; however, they can be severe. In some instances, deportation and a ban on re-entry in the future may be enforced. The possibility of this is devastating for immigrants who have families, friends, and established lives within the country. To avoid this outcome, those who are arrested by ICE may opt for voluntary departure immigration bonds.

Immigration bonds are similar to traditional bail bonds that are used within the criminal justice system. Typically, a person is arrested on a criminal offense and later, a judge determines a specific amount of money that is required to secure the person’s release. This does not erase the pending criminal charges; however, it does allow the person accused of a crime to return home- instead of remaining in jail until the final outcome of the case is determined. If the accused criminal does not abide by the specific terms of their bond set by the court, they will be returned to jail for the remainder of the case. With an immigration bond, the difference is that the individuals have been accused specifically of breaking laws related to immigration and they are arrested and detained by ICE instead of local law enforcement agents (LEA).

Delivery Immigration Bonds vs. Voluntary Departure Immigration Bonds

When it comes to immigration bonds, there are two distinct types: delivery immigration bonds and voluntary departure immigration bonds. Delivery bonds are the most common and when speaking of immigration bonds in general, most reference this form. A delivery bond means that the immigrant wishes to fight the charges in an immigration court. This method allows them to remain within the United States while the case is processed through the court system. After the delivery bond is paid, they are able to leave the ICE facility and return home. They must continue to abide by the terms of the bond and must appear in court or at the ICE facility as required to remain on bond. If they fail to do so, they will be returned to ICE custody and held until their case concludes.

Voluntary departure immigration bonds essentially mean that the immigrant does not wish to fight their charges in immigration court. They agree to leave the country on their own and fund their own travel out of the country. While this means that they must leave the country, they are often given a period of time (typically between 30-90 days) to get their affairs in order before departing. This is a good option when an immigrant fears that they will be deported if they pursue the case in court because it will eliminate deportation on their record and can prevent a ban on re-entry to the U.S. in the future.

How Much Does a Voluntary Departure Immigration Bond Cost?

A traditional delivery immigration bond cost ranges anywhere from a minimum of $1500 to more than $10,000, depending on the circumstances. Voluntary departure bonds often cost less for immigrants with no criminal history who are not a flight risk. In some cases, they can be set as low as $500, but may still cost several thousands of dollars depending on the immigration judge’s ruling. Although the price may be lower initially, it is important to keep in mind that voluntary departure immigration bonds still require immigrants to fund their own travel costs. This means they must pay for their own flight out of the United States and make their own arrangements for travel and housing in their home country upon arrival.

Learn More About Immigration Bonds

Have more questions about voluntary departure or traditional immigration bonds? Connect with an expert at US Immigration Bonds today to discuss your needs.