How to Find Someone Detained by ICE: A Step-by-Step Guide (2025-2026)
Discovering that a loved one has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. The fastest way to find them is through the official ICE Online Detainee Locator System. This guide will walk you through how to use this tool effectively and what to do next.
What You Need to Know Before You Search
The online locator is the primary tool, but you must have the correct information to use it. You will need one of the following:
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Their A-Number (Best Option): This is their Alien Registration Number. It’s a 8 or 9-digit number found on their green card, work permit, or other immigration documents. It is the most accurate way to search.
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Their Biographical Information:
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Full Legal Name: Exactly as it appears on their official government documents.
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Date of Birth: Must be correct.
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Country of Birth: As listed in their passport or birth certificate.
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Crucial Tip: The system is very sensitive to spelling. If you don’t find them at first, try alternate spellings or their full legal name, including a middle name.
How to Use the ICE Detainee Locator System
Follow these steps to search for a detainee:
Step 1: Go to the Official Website
Visit the only official site: locator.ice.gov.
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Avoid Scams: Only use websites ending in .gov. Do not pay any money to a third-party site for this service.
Step 2: Choose Your Search Method
You will see two options. Choose the one you have information for:
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Search by A-Number (Recommended)
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Search by Name
Step 3: Enter the Information Carefully
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If using the A-Number, enter it without any spaces or dashes.
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If using the name, type it exactly as it is on file. Use the full first and last name.
Step 4: Review the Results
If the person is found in ICE custody, the results will show:
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Their full name and A-Number.
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Custody Status: (e.g., “In ICE Custody”).
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Detention Facility: The name and address of where they are being held.
If You Find Them: What to Do Next
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Contact the Detention Facility: Use the phone number provided for the facility. You can call to:
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Confirm their custody status.
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Ask about visitation rules and hours.
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Inquire about their well-being.
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Seek Legal Help Immediately: This is a critical step. An immigration attorney can:
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Advise you on the detainee’s rights.
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Help with bond requests.
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Represent them in immigration court.
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Find low-cost or free legal aid through non-profit organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) or Justice for Our Neighbors.
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Contact Their Consulate: The detainee’s home country consulate can often provide assistance, check on their treatment, and sometimes help communicate with family.
If You CANNOT Find Them
There are several reasons why someone might not appear in the system:
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They are in transit between facilities and haven’t been processed yet. Wait 24 hours and search again.
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They are being held by another agency (like a local jail) and haven’t been transferred to ICE custody yet.
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They have already been released or deported.
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They are a minor, and their information is protected for privacy reasons.
Additional Help and Resources
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National Immigration Detention Hotline: A free service that allows detainees to report issues. Families can call for guidance.
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Local Non-Profit Organizations: Search for immigrant advocacy groups in your area. They often have “Know Your Rights” guides and can connect you with resources.
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Your Loved One’s Consulate: They can be a powerful ally.
Important Reminders
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Be Patient but Persistent. The system updates every 8 hours, but information can sometimes be delayed.
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Write Everything Down. Keep a log of who you spoke to, when, and what they said.
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Never Give Up. The immigration system is complex, but using the official tools and seeking professional help is the best path forward.
Using the ICE Detainee Locator is the first step in a difficult process. By following this guide, you can quickly find your loved one and begin taking the necessary steps to support them.
Start your search here: locator.ice.gov
