Immigration Bond Basics: How Amounts Are Set, Who’s Responsible, and What Happens If Court Is Missed

In immigration cases, the bond amount is typically set by either ICE or an immigration judge. Many bonds fall in a broad range - often around $2,500 to $15,000 - but the final number depends on the individual case. That’s why two people held at the same detention center can end up with very different bond amounts.

An immigration bond is a three-party agreement. The detained person is the

One option: post the full bond amount yourself. You're putting up the entire sum as security, guaranteeing the released person will follow bond conditions - especially attending immigration court. Handle everything correctly, meet all case requirements, and that money should come back to you. But if the released person violates the bond conditions, the bond can be forfeited. You lose what you posted.

The other option is using a licensed bond company. Instead of paying the full amount, you pay a nonrefundable fee - typically around 2% to 10% - and the company posts the bond (often electronically). Some companies charge additional administrative fees. Families often go this route because it's faster and doesn't require coming up with the full bond amount upfront.

• ✓ Upfront cost - Paying the full bond yourself usually requires the entire amount; a bond company typically charges a 2%–10% nonrefundable fee (plus possible administrative fees).
• ✓ Speed and convenience - Bond companies may post the bond electronically, which can make the process feel quicker and more hands-off.
• ✓ Refund vs. nonrefundable fee - When you post the full bond yourself, the money is intended to be returned if bond conditions are met; a bond company’s fee is generally not returned.
• ✓ Financial risk if something goes wrong - If bond conditions are violated, the bond can be forfeited; when you posted the full amount, that can mean losing what you paid.

Missing immigration court after release on bond triggers serious consequences - fast. The bond can be forfeited, meaning the government keeps the money. The person can be re-detained through an arrest and warrant. And missing court often pushes the case toward removal/deportation. If you're helping manage the case, treat hearing dates as hard deadlines. Track every notice, confirm dates, and address conflicts immediately. A missed appearance can spiral into bond loss and new detention.