How to find someone who may be detained at Jack Harwell Detention Center (first steps)

Before you search online or call anyone, write down the person's first and last name exactly as they use it. Spelling matters for matching records. Even small differences can slow things down. If they use more than one last name or a hyphenated name, include that too.

Have their country of birth ready as well. CFIA's lookup uses this as part of the search, and it helps narrow results when the person has a common name. Sharing the country of birth up front when you call can also cut down on back-and-forth.

• ✓ Look for the detainee’s Alien Registration Number (A-Number) on immigration paperwork, if you have access to it.
• ✓ Confirm the length. An A-Number can be seven, eight, or nine digits.
• ✓ Keep it with the person’s full name so you can provide both quickly if you call for help.

For a quick online lookup through CFIA, have the detainee's first and last name and country of birth ready before you start. Use the spelling from official paperwork when possible, since that's usually what records are filed under. Not sure about spelling? Try the most likely version first, then alternate spellings.

If the online search doesn't bring up results, or you're not sure you're looking at the right person, call CFIA at (844) 910-2342. Have the same details ready (name, country of birth, and an A-Number if you have one) so they can run a more targeted search.

Call the ICE ERO Information Line if you need help confirming a detention situation or you're stuck after trying the online search. Have the person's identifying information in front of you so the conversation stays focused and you don't have to call back with missing details.

1. Gather the key details. Have the person’s full name, country of birth, and A-Number (if you have it) in front of you.
2. Call CFIA for help searching. Contact CFIA at (844) 910-2342 and provide the identifying information you collected.
3. Write down what you’re told. Note any details they provide so you can follow up consistently if you need to call again.

Still can't locate them? Your next step is usually a call to the ICE ERO Information Line at 888-351-4024. If you have the detainee's A-Number, share it. That number makes it easier for staff to find the correct record.

Verify and Record

• ✓ Keep the ICE ERO Information Line number (888-351-4024) and the CFIA help number ((844) 910-2342) handy when you are making calls.
• ✓ Record the date and time of each call.
• ✓ Write down the name of the person you spoke with, if they give it.
• ✓ Save any reference or case number you are given.
• ✓ When you call again, repeat the same identifying details (full name, country of birth, and A-Number if available) to avoid confusion.