Who Can Pay an Immigration Bond?

After an immigrant is arrested by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, the first thought that their loved ones have is simply, “how can I get them out?”. Unfortunately, being detained by ICE means that immigrants lose contact with their emotional support system and are subjected to less than ideal circumstances. While all loved ones want to have the detained immigrant released as soon as possible to spare them from the added stress of being imprisoned, it is not possible for everyone. Immigrants who have a lengthy criminal history, have been previously deported or pose a threat to the public will likely be held in mandatory detainment until they are removed from the United States or until their case concluded in court. Others, however, may have the option of being released on an immigration bond. So, who can pay an immigration bond?

A person who pays for an immigrant’s bond is known as an immigration bond sponsor. This person does not have to be related to the immigrant and can be anyone who is a United States citizen or legal permanent resident. They must be in good standing with the United States government and be in possession of their original social security card. To pay the immigration bond, they must then schedule an appointment in person or over the phone with their local ICE facility. If the immigrant is being detained far away from the sponsor’s home, other arrangements can usually be made to pay the bond.

If the immigration bond sponsor cannot pay the full amount of the bail bond, immigration bond agents or companies are also an option and can help in understanding who can pay an immigration bond. With this method, the sponsor pays a percentage of the bail bond immigration agents require for release. This money is paid directly to the bail bond company and the sponsor may also be asked to provide a form of collateral to secure what is known as a surety bond. Generally, collateral comes in the form of property, a home, or a vehicle, although the specific requirements will vary based on the total bond amount and risk to the company. After an agreement is made and the requirements are met, the company will work with ICE to release the immigrant from detainment as quickly as possible.

After the immigration bond is paid, using either method, the immigrant will be free from detainment until their case is resolved in the immigration court system. Regardless of the outcome of this case, sponsors who paid the full amount of the bond are eligible to receive their money back if the immigrant abided by the terms of the bond. If the immigrant did not comply, the sponsor will lose their money. For sponsors who used a bail bond immigration company for funding, they will not receive their money back as the percentage paid was for the service provided and not the bond directly. Collateral on the other hand will only be collected if the immigrant failed to appear in court or otherwise broke the terms of the bond.

If you are seeking the assistance of a bail bond immigration service or have questions about who can pay an immigration bond, contact us today to see how we can help with your situation.