Immigration Bond: Complete Guide for Families
If a family member was detained by ICE, an immigration bond may be the fastest way to release them while their case moves through court. This guide covers how much it costs, who can pay, and the exact steps to do it online or in person.
Open CeBONDS (online payment)What is an immigration bond?
An immigration bond is a deposit a family member or friend pays to the government to release a person detained by ICE. It guarantees they will attend every immigration court hearing. If they comply, the money is returned at the end of the case. If they miss a hearing, the money is forfeited and a removal order is issued in absentia.
Who qualifies for a bond?
Not every detainee qualifies. ICE or an immigration judge decides eligibility based on factors like:
- No serious criminal record (murder, sexual assault, drug trafficking)
- Not subject to "mandatory detention" under INA §236(c)
- No prior unexecuted removal order
- Demonstrated community ties (family, employment, housing)
- Not considered a flight risk or danger to the community
If ICE denies bond, a lawyer can request a "bond hearing" before an immigration judge to reconsider.
How much does an ICE bond cost?
The amount is set by ICE or the judge. The legal minimum is $1,500 USD, but typical 2026 ranges are:
- Delivery Bond: $1,500 – $20,000 USD (most common)
- Voluntary Departure Bond: $500 minimum
- Cases with prior record or flight risk: $20,000 – $50,000+ USD
Important: the amount must be paid in full. ICE does not accept partial payments or payment plans. If you cannot pay the full amount, consider an immigration bond company that charges 15%–20% as a non-refundable fee.
How to pay the bond — two options
Option A — Pay online via CeBONDS (recommended)
CeBONDS (Cash Electronic Bonds Online) is the official ICE system to pay bonds via ACH transfer from a U.S. bank account. It is the fastest method and avoids traveling to an ICE office.
- Go to cebv.ice.gov and create an account as the "Obligor" (the payer)
- Verify your identity with a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, REAL ID)
- Upload the bond paperwork (Form I-352 or Notice of Custody Determination)
- Enter the detainee's A-Number and the exact bond amount
- Link your U.S. bank account (ACH only — credit cards not accepted)
- Authorize the payment. Release typically processes within 24–48 business hours
Option B — Pay in person at an ICE ERO office
If you prefer to pay by cashier's check or money order, go to an ICE ERO (Enforcement and Removal Operations) field office.
- Call the nearest ERO office first to confirm hours and requirements
- Bring valid government photo ID (driver's license, passport, REAL ID)
- Bring your SSN or ITIN — some offices require it
- Bring the exact amount as a cashier's check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security"
- ICE does NOT accept cash at most offices — confirm before going
- You will receive a receipt (Form I-305). Keep it: you need it to claim the refund later
Who can pay (Obligor)
The bond payer must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) with valid status. They cannot have serious criminal record and must be able to show the legal origin of the funds.
When do I get the money back?
Refund happens when the case ends and the detainee attended every hearing. This can take 1 to 5 years or more. ICE mails a check to the Obligor at the address on file. No interest accrues. To claim it you need Form I-305 (receipt) and to file Form I-391.
If the detainee misses a single hearing, you lose the entire amount and a removal order is issued in absentia.
Watch out for scams
- ICE never asks for payment by phone, Western Union, Zelle, or gift cards
- Do not pay "notarios" or anyone promising fast release without a lawyer
- Always verify the A-Number on locator.ice.gov before paying
- Legitimate bond companies are state-regulated — ask for their license
- No one can guarantee release. Any such promise is a fraud signal
Frequently asked questions
How much does an ICE bond cost on average?
The 2026 average is between $5,000 and $12,000 USD for a Delivery Bond. The legal minimum is $1,500, but ICE rarely sets it that low.
Can I pay the bond with a credit card?
No. CeBONDS only accepts ACH transfers from U.S. bank accounts. In person, only cashier's check or money order — no card, no cash.
How long after paying until release?
With CeBONDS, 24 to 48 business hours. In person, often the same day if the ERO office is in the same state as the detention center.
What if I do not have the full amount?
You can use an immigration bond company. They charge 15%–20% of the amount as a non-refundable fee but post the rest. Ask for references and check BBB complaints before signing.
Can a lawyer lower the bond amount?
Yes. An immigration lawyer can request a bond hearing before a judge to reduce the amount ICE set. On average, judges reduce by 30%–50% when there is evidence of community ties.
Can paying someone else's bond affect my green card?
No, as long as you can show the legal origin of the money and have no criminal record. Paying a bond does not affect your immigration status.
Is your family member detained right now?
MiSignal helps families coordinate a lawyer, bond, and communication with the detention center in under 24 hours. Detention Mode centralizes A-Number, location, and documents in one place.
Open Detention Mode