ICE Detention Guide
What to Know When a Loved One is Detained
When someone you love is detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), time is critical. This comprehensive guide explains what happens during detention, how to locate and communicate with your loved one, and the legal process ahead.
Arrest & Processing
When ICE arrests someone, they are taken into custody and transported to a processing facility. During processing, the person is fingerprinted, photographed, and their background is checked. This typically takes several hours.
Custody Determination
ICE makes an initial custody determination: release on recognizance, release on bond, or continued detention. Those with criminal history or deemed flight risks may be held without bond.
Notice to Appear Issued
A Notice to Appear (NTA) is filed with the immigration court, officially starting removal proceedings. This document lists the charges against the person and schedules their first court hearing.
Transfer to Detention Facility
After processing, the person may be transferred to an ICE detention center or a county jail that contracts with ICE. They will remain there until released on bond, granted relief, or removed from the country.
ICE Contact Center
1-866-347-2423
General information and detainee locator assistance
EOIR Automated Hotline
1-800-898-7180
Check immigration court hearing dates and case status
National Immigration Detention Hotline
9233#
Free support for detained individuals (dial 9233# from inside detention)
Need Legal Help?
If your loved one is detained, time is critical. Our experienced immigration attorneys can help fight for their release.