What Is a Voluntary Departure Bond?

A voluntary departure bond is a type of immigration bond that allows a non-citizen to leave the United States voluntarily instead of being formally deported. This bond acts as a financial guarantee to the U.S. government that the individual will depart the country within the timeframe ordered by the immigration court.

By posting a voluntary departure bond, the individual agrees to comply with the departure order and avoid additional immigration penalties.

How Does a Voluntary Departure Bond Work?

When an immigration judge grants voluntary departure, they may require the individual to post a bond with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The process typically includes:

1. Court Grants Voluntary Departure – The judge allows the individual to leave voluntarily instead of issuing a removal order.
2. Bond Amount Is Set – The court determines the bond amount, usually at least $500 but often higher.
3. Bond Is Posted – The bond must be paid within a specific deadline, typically 5 business days.
4. Departure From the U.S. – The individual must leave the country within the timeframe ordered by the court.
5. Bond Is Returned – If the person leaves on time and complies with the order, the bond is refunded.

Why Voluntary Departure Bonds Are Required

The bond ensures that the individual complies with the court’s order and leaves the country as agreed.

Without a voluntary departure bond:

• The court may issue a formal removal (deportation) order
• The individual may face longer reentry bans
• Future immigration opportunities may be negatively affected

Posting the bond helps demonstrate good faith and compliance with immigration law.

Benefits of Voluntary Departure vs. Deportation

Voluntary departure offers important advantages compared to formal deportation:

• Avoids a permanent deportation order on record
• May reduce the time before applying to reenter the U.S.
• Shows compliance with immigration authorities
• Protects future immigration opportunities

Failure to comply, however, can result in severe penalties and loss of bond money.

What Happens If the Person Does Not Leave the U.S.?

If the individual fails to depart within the court-ordered timeframe:

• The bond is forfeited and not refunded
• A removal order is issued
• Additional penalties and immigration restrictions apply
• Future immigration relief may become more difficult

Compliance is critical to avoid these consequences.

Voluntary Departure Bond vs. Immigration Delivery Bond

These two bond types serve different purposes:

Voluntary Departure Bond

• Guarantees departure from the U.S.
• Refundable if departure conditions are met

Delivery Bond

• Guarantees appearance at immigration hearings
• Allows release from ICE custody

Both bonds play important roles in immigration proceedings.

How a Bail Bond Agency Can Help

Posting an immigration bond can be confusing and time-sensitive. A licensed bail bond agency can:

• Guide families through the immigration bond process
• Explain bond requirements and deadlines
• Help ensure proper documentation
• Provide support throughout the process

Professional assistance helps avoid costly mistakes and delays.

Need Help With an Immigration Bond?

Immigration cases can be stressful and complex, especially when deadlines are involved. Our experienced bail agents are available 24/7 to help families understand voluntary departure bonds and navigate the process quickly and professionally.

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