In this article, the Gonzales & Gonzales Immigration Bonds team will review everything you need to know when it comes to getting an immigration bond refund.
Tens of thousands of individuals in the United States may stay in custody for extended periods, sometimes weeks or months at a time. However, some detainees can be set free via an immigration bond. When an immigration bond is posted for someone in immigration detention, the money can be refunded once certain conditions are met and the Department of Homeland Security will issue Form I-1391, or Notice – Immigration Bond Cancelled. The immigrant will need to comply with the final decision of the judge.
This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining your immigration bond refund. If you have immediate questions or concerns for our team, please give us a call directly at (800) 628-8888.
Understanding Immigration Bonds
An immigration bond is a sum of money paid to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to secure the release of someone from immigration detention. There are three main types:
- Delivery bonds: Allow detainees to be released while ensuring they appear at immigration hearings
- Voluntary departure bonds: Guarantee that the person will leave the country by a specified date
- Supervision bonds: Ensure that released individuals comply with specific conditions and check-in requirements while their immigration case is pending
- Public charge bonds: Provide financial assurance that the immigrant will not become dependent on government assistance or public benefits
When Can You Request a Refund?
You can request a bond refund when one of these conditions is met:
- DHS will issue the I-391 Bond Cancellation Notice when the immigration case has been completed (whether through deportation, voluntary departure, or grant of legal status)
Steps to Obtain Your Refund
Below are the critical steps required to obtaining your immigration bond refund, which will depend on when the bond was posted (check Form I-352):
1. Gather Required Documentation
Before starting the refund process, you will first need to collect:
- Original I-352 bond receipt (Form I-305)
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Documentation showing the case outcome
- Proof of departure (if applicable)
- Current mailing address and contact information
2. Submit Form I-391
- Request Form I-391 (Notice Immigration Bond Cancelled) from the local ICE office
- ICE will send this form to the ICE Debt Management Center
3. Contact the ICE Debt Management Center
- After Form I-391 is processed, contact the Debt Management Center
- Verify they have received all necessary documentation
- Provide any additional information they may require
4. Form I-305 (Done at the Time of Posting Bond)
- Form I-305 (Receipt of Immigration Officer – United States Bonds or Notes)
- Your original bond receipt
5. Wait for Processing
Once your application for the immigration bond refund was received, please allow several weeks or months to process:
- Standard processing time is 4-6 months after all documentation is received
- Keep copies of all submitted documents
Have Questions About Getting Your Immigration Bond Refund? Contact Us!
Remember that the bond refund process requires patience and attention to detail. Keep all your documentation organized, follow up regularly, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed.
While the process may seem complex, following these steps carefully will help ensure you receive your refund successfully.