Who Qualifies for an Immigration Bond?
In Florida, you may qualify for an immigration bond if you are detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and are not considered a flight risk or a danger to the community. Typically, those who are subject to mandatory detention due to criminal convictions such as drug offenses or violent crimes may not qualify. You must also request the bond hearing. While you do not need an attorney to ask for an immigration bond, those with legal representation generally have a more successful outcome.
At Bassey Immigration Law Center, we have over a decade of legal experience resolving many challenging immigration issues. Our multilingual team fully understands the immigrant experience and knows how to successfully fight for your future.
What is an Immigration Bond?
An immigration bond is a payment that allows a detained immigrant to be released from ICE custody while their case is pending. It acts as a guarantee that they will appear for future court hearings and comply with the legal process. Keep in mind that missing any hearing generally means immediate deportation.
Family or friends who are Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) or U.S. citizens who speak English (to be able to read the bond contract) must provide ICE with funds to ensure the person does keep that promise. Failure to do so means the bond money is forfeited or lost. By law, the minimum amount of an immigration bond is $1,500, but it can be significantly higher. You cannot be released from detention until it is paid.
If deportation is ordered, you must leave before the bondholders are repaid. If you attend all their hearings, the bondholders get their money back when your case is resolved.
Who Does Not Qualify for an Immigration Bond?
Some people will not qualify for an immigration bond. It includes those subject to mandatory detention due to specific criminal convictions, such as serious drug offenses, aggravated felonies, or crimes involving moral turpitude. Additionally, anyone with prior deportation orders or considered a flight risk or a danger to the community may also be ineligible.
In some cases, ICE may decide that the person is not answering their questions truthfully or is otherwise non-cooperative. Under these circumstances, they would not qualify for an immigration bond.
Bond Denial Appeals
If denied bond, you can appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Start by filing the Notice of Appeal, Form EOIR-26, within 30 days of the judge’s decision. The BIA must receive this form within the 30-day deadline, or it will not be considered.
Contact a Deportation Lawyer at Bassey Immigration Law Center
Every member of our team at Bassey Immigration Law Center has personal experience with the immigration process, so we understand the stress you are under and the importance of resolving this situation quickly and efficiently. It may not be just you but your spouse and children whose futures are in jeopardy with potential deportation.
Let Bassey Immigration Law Center help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Call our offices today in Tampa, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg to speak to a deportation lawyer.
