If you're a Cuban with an I-220A case and your appointment with ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is approaching, feeling anxious is understandable. Recently, some Cubans have left these meetings with new appointment dates and their documents in hand, while others have been detained. There's no guarantee how yours will turn out.
However, skipping your appointment is almost always a worse choice. Missing it violates the conditions of your release and could lead to arrest. Not showing up in court might result in a deportation order issued in your absence. The best course of action is to be thoroughly prepared.
This guide, using official information available as of October 26, outlines what the I-220A requires, which documents to bring, how to ready your family before the appointment, and what steps to take if you're detained.
Understanding the I-220A Requirements
The I-220A is an Order of Release on Recognizance. This official ICE form details the conditions you agreed to upon being released from custody. Such conditions include:
- Attending all interviews or hearings when instructed by ICE or the immigration court.
- Reporting to the officer and office listed in your documents, either in person or in writing, as directed.
- Participating in the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program if required, which might involve electronic monitoring and curfews.
- Not removing or tampering with a GPS ankle monitor if you have one, as this could lead to arrest and legal proceedings.
- Obtaining written permission from the officer before moving to a new residence.
- Assisting ICE in obtaining travel documents if necessary and not breaking any laws.
The form warns that failing to comply with these conditions "may result in the revocation" of your release and lead to arrest and detention. For a clearer understanding of how this differs from parole, refer to our guide explaining why the I-220A is not a parole.
ICE Appointments vs. Court Hearings: Key Differences
It's easy to mix up these two commitments, but each has distinct consequences:
ICE Appointment (check-in): This is a check-in with the agency that released you. ICE indicates that failing to adhere to the conditions of release could result in a reassessment of your custody, potentially leading to detention again.
Immigration Court Hearing: Conducted by an EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review) judge, part of the Department of Justice. According to federal regulation 8 CFR 1003.26, if you fail to appear, the judge may order your deportation in absentia if the government proves you are deportable and notified you of the date. Notification is valid if sent to your last known address.
It's crucial to keep track of both. Using your A-number (the alien number on your documents), you can check for scheduled hearings in the EOIR's case information system. Do this before each ICE appointment, as the court may have an open case you weren't aware of.
Essential Documents for Your ICE Appointment
ICE provides a list of recommended documents for in-person appointments. Tailored to your case, this includes:
- Your I-220A and any letters or notifications with the appointment date.
- Proof of your current address: lease agreement, utility bills, or a letter from your host.
- All forms of identification, both U.S. and foreign: Cuban passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate if applicable.
- Your immigration documents: USCIS receipts (e.g., asylum or work permit), court notifications, and Notice to Appear if available.
- Records of any arrests or convictions, with outcomes, and evidence of rehabilitation if applicable.
- Medical records for severe illness, pregnancy, or disability, if relevant.
- Records of education or training and proof of significant assets in the U.S.
- Signed G-28 form if you have an attorney.
Bring originals and a copy, and keep a complete copy at home. Leave a duplicate with a trusted family member in case they need it.
Creating a Family Plan Before Your Appointment
The most crucial preparation happens days before the appointment, not while waiting in line:
- Consult with an attorney or accredited representative. According to ICE's attorney page, your attorney must have filed the G-28 form with the ICE office handling your case to request information.
- Memorize two phone numbers: your attorney's and a family member with legal status. If detained, you may not have access to your phone.
- Provide your family with your A-number and birthdate and country. They'll need these to find you.
- Arrange childcare: who will pick them up from school and who can make decisions for them.
- Go with someone trustworthy who will wait outside the office and knows who to contact if you don't come out.
- If you take medication, bring a prescription or medical report indicating this.
During the appointment, maintain composure and punctuality. Answer truthfully but refrain from oversharing; you can state that you'd prefer to consult your attorney before discussing your case.
Carefully read any documents you receive. Do not sign anything you don't understand, especially English documents regarding voluntary departure or accepting deportation, as they can have severe consequences. Request explanations in Spanish and have your attorney review them.
What Happens If You're Detained
ICE outlines the following procedures and what your family can do:
Phone Calls: According to ICE's national detainee handbook, you'll have phone access upon arrival at a detention center. Your unit should have a quarterly updated list of free legal service providers.
Personal Belongings: Your clothing, money, and belongings will be taken for safekeeping, and you'll receive a detailed receipt. Keep this safe. Your identification and immigration documents will be added to your file.
How Your Family Can Find You: The online detainee locator is available 24/7 and in Spanish. It requires your full name and A-number, or your birthdate and country of birth. If you're not found, your family should contact the local ICE office. Minors under 18 do not appear in the system.
Phone Information: ICE's detention information line is 1-888-351-4024, available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Bond: Depending on your entry and record, you might be eligible to request it. We explain this process in our guide on how to request an immigration bond and who can pay it.
Navigating ICE Appointments and Family Preparedness
Is detention guaranteed if I attend my ICE appointment?
No, experiences vary widely. For instance, a Cuban family with I-220A in Orlando left their appointment with a court date set for 2028, while others have faced detention. Being prepared is key.
Can I relocate before my appointment?
The I-220A requires written permission from your officer before changing residences. If you also have a court case, notify the change using the EOIR-33 form within five business days, as per EOIR's address change page. This can be done online.
What should I do if an emergency prevents me from attending?
Contact the ICE office listed on your documents before the date, keep proof of this communication, and inform your attorney. Do not miss the appointment without explanation.
How should I involve my attorney?
Notify your attorney in advance of your appointment date and bring the signed G-28 form, as ICE requires. This will allow your attorney to request case information if you're detained.
Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. U.S. immigration laws and policies frequently change. For specific case evaluation, consult a licensed immigration attorney or a representative accredited by the Department of Justice.