TL;DR: A voluntary departure bond allows someone in immigration custody to leave the U.S. voluntarily, potentially preserving future immigration options. It requires full payment and proof of timely departure to avoid penalties.
Main points:
- Voluntary departure avoids formal deportation.
- Bond must be paid in full (by person or bond agent).
- Payment can be made at ICE, via bond agent, or online.
- Departure must occur by the court-set date.
- Proof of departure is required for a bond refund.
- Failure to comply risks losing money and future reentry.
A voluntary departure bond lets someone in immigration custody leave the U.S. on their own instead of facing removal. This option can protect future immigration chances, but it comes with strict rules. Understanding how it works helps families decide if it’s the right move for their situation.
What Is a Voluntary Departure Bond
An immigration bond for voluntary departure is a type of immigration bond. It lets someone leave the US on their own. It helps avoid a formal removal order and depirtation, which can block reentry for up to 10 years. It limits future benefits like adjustment of status or cancellation of removal.
Judges may offer voluntary departure bonds at two points:
- Before the Hearing Ends: The person must concede removability, waive appeals, and show intent and ability to leave. If approved, the judge may grant up to 120 days to depart.
- After the Hearing Ends: The person must prove one year of physical presence, good moral character for five years, and present valid travel documents. The judge may allow up to 60 days to leave and may require a bond of at least $500.
How to Pay a Voluntary Departure Bond
To post a voluntary departure bond, you must pay the full amount set by the immigration judge. This money guarantees the person will leave the US on time.
You can pay the voluntary departure bond in one of these ways:
- At an ICE Office: A US citizen or legal resident goes to an ICE ERO office with ID and a cashier’s check.
- Through a Bond Agent: You pay part of the bond, and the agent posts the full amount. You can usually pay the balance back in installments over time.
- Online with CeBonds: Some bonds can be paid electronically through the CeBonds system.
What Happens to Your Voluntary Departure Bond After You Leave the US?
After leaving the US on time under a bond with voluntary departure, the next step is to prove you followed the court’s order. You must keep records of your travel, such as plane tickets or passport stamps, and send them to ICE or the immigration court.
This step is part of the post conclusion voluntary departure bond process. It confirms that you left by the deadline. If you do this properly, the person who paid the bond can request a refund from ICE. The process is as follows:
- Provide proof of departure to the right immigration office
- Wait for ICE to confirm the case is closed
- Request the bond refund using the receipt from payment
Is It Right for You?
Filing an application for a departure bond at or before a master calendar hearing may be right for you if:
- You don’t have strong legal grounds to fight your case
- You want to leave the US without being deported
- You plan to apply for a visa in the future
- You can afford to pay the bond or use a bond agent
Unsure if a Voluntary Departure Bond is the right choice for your case? Contact Liberty Immigration today for a free consultation and get clear, compassionate guidance tailored to your immigration situation.