TL;DR: For individuals in removal proceedings, alternatives to detention offer a way to remain in the community while complying with ICE requirements. This guide explains how the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) works and what to expect if you qualify, helping you understand options that limit disruption to daily life while your case moves forward.
Readers will discover:
- What the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) is and how it functions as an alternative to detention
- Who may be eligible for ISAP based on age, risk level, criminal history, and community ties
- The different monitoring methods used by ICE, including telephonic check-ins, GPS devices, and the SmartLINK mobile app
- Key rules and compliance expectations tied to each monitoring type
- Potential consequences for failing to follow ISAP requirements
If you have been released from Department of Homeland Security custody but are still in removal proceedings with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, know that you have options beyond traditional detention. In fact, many legal and official alternatives to detention by DHS are convenient and limit their impact on your lifestyle and freedom.
In this guide, we will touch on some of the facets of a new program to help individuals like you avoid unnecessary detention.
The Intensive Supervision Appearance Program
ICE’s Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) was designed to allow aliens access to their communities and their families while moving through immigration proceedings. With the ISAP program, ICE is able to monitor individuals without the need for formal, behind bars detainment.
ISAP Eligibility
Individuals who are 18+ and have been released from ICE custody are deemed eligible to participate in ISAP as an alternative to detention. However, the level of supervision provided is determined by a number of assessed factors and made on a case-by-case basis. if they:
- Can show a clean criminal record,
- Maintain ties to their community,
- Have a humanitarian concern relating to their case, and
- Are deemed a low risk to public safety.
ISAP Monitoring Types
There are several ways an individual can comply with ISAP program and ICE monitoring as viable alternatives to immigration detention. This includes:
- ICE Check-in Over the Phone – Where the individual’s voice is used to create a biometric voiceprint that is used during regular calls.
- Body-Worn GPS – Using an ankle or wrist device that actively tracks the individuals location.
- SmartLINK Mobile Application – Using the individual’s personal mobile phone for facial recognition, document uploading, GPS monitoring, and more.
As alternatives to the detention program, ICE offers options on a case-by-case basis best fitting an individual’s background, status, and ability to comply.
Rules for ISAP Monitoring as Alternatives to Immigration Detention
ISAP is a process of regular, mandatory monitoring. Individuals must comply with the program’s stipulations or risk escalating their supervision.
Individuals are expected to acknowledge the rules set forth at the time of ISAP activation. And the mandatory rules are specific to each monitoring type.
For instance, phone check-ins are often scheduled weekly or bi-weekly. Of course, an unexpected ICE check in as a home visit may also be a part of one’s case.
Similarly, as noted on the ICE website, most ISAP ankle monitors are worn for under a year; however, some individuals may be required to wear theirs for longer. During this time, an ISAP ankle monitor cannot be removed for risk of re-detainment, revoked bail and/or bonds, and more.
Get Help with Your Immigration Case
If you have been detained by ICE or are able to be released with an immigration bond, Liberty Immigration is here to help. We also offer guidance on safe and reliable alternatives to the detention program by ICE.
Our offices, conveniently located in states across the country, have helped countless individuals just like you proceed through the immigration court system and bond process with confidence. And we are ready to help you with your status.
On supervision? Contact Liberty Immigration for help.