What is an ICE hold is a common question families ask when someone is in jail and immigration authorities become involved.
Understanding what is an ICE hold can help families respond quickly when immigration authorities become involved.
An ICE hold, sometimes called an immigration detainer, is a request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) asking a jail or prison to notify immigration authorities before releasing an individual.
What is an ICE hold in practice depends on how local jails cooperate with immigration authorities.
What is an ICE Hold and What Does it Mean
An ICE hold usually means immigration authorities believe the person may not have legal immigration status or may have an immigration case.
The hold asks the jail to:
• notify ICE before the person is released
• temporarily keep the person in custody so immigration officers can take over
If ICE decides to take custody, the person may be transferred from the jail directly into immigration detention.
When ICE Places a Detainer
An immigration detainer may be placed while someone is still in jail or prison.
ICE officers may review arrest records, fingerprints, or other information to determine whether a person may be subject to immigration enforcement.
If ICE decides to issue a detainer, the jail is asked to notify immigration authorities before the person is released.
What Happens After the Jail Release Date
When the person’s jail sentence ends or when they are scheduled to be released, the jail may notify ICE that the person is being released.
In some cases, ICE officers may arrive to take the person into immigration custody.
Instead of being released, the individual may be transferred to an immigration processing facility or detention center.
Transfer to Immigration Custody
After ICE takes custody of the person, they may be taken to a processing facility where immigration officers review their case.
This process may include:
• identity confirmation
• fingerprint records
• review of immigration history
From there the individual may be placed into immigration detention and immigration court proceedings may begin.
Why Families Should Understand the Process
Families often feel confused and overwhelmed when they hear that a loved one has an ICE hold.
Understanding what an immigration detainer means and what may happen next can help families prepare for possible immigration detention or deportation proceedings.
DeportNav provides practical information designed to help individuals and families understand immigration detention procedures and prepare for the challenges that may follow.
Why Understanding What an ICE Hold Means Matters.
Many families feel confused when they first hear the term ICE hold.
Understanding what is an ICE hold helps you:
- prepare for possible transfer to immigration custody
- avoid being caught off guard at release
- take action early
Even small steps can make a difference during this process.
What to Do Next
If someone you know has an ICE hold, the next steps are critical.
Start with the most important actions here:
Start Here: What To Do When Facing Deportation
Prepare for What Comes Next
An ICE hold often leads to immigration detention. Being prepared can help you stay organized and reduce stress.
Get the DeportNav preparation guide here
Important Disclaimer
This article provides general informational content based on publicly available resources and personal experience. DeportNav does not provide legal advice or legal representation.
For legal advice regarding immigration matters, consult a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal professional.