At a glance (120 words): An Order of Supervision is an ICE ERO document that allows you to live in the community while ICE enforces an existing immigration obligation, often after a release from detention. Two common forms are I-220A (Order of Release on Recognizance) and I-220B (Order of Supervision). Both can require regular check-ins, address and employment reporting, and strict travel limits. The biggest risk is an unintentional violation, such as traveling outside the approved area without written permission, missing a check-in, changing phones or addresses without reporting, or failing to respond to an ICE call. You can often request modified conditions for work, medical care, or family needs. Move fast when problems happen. Document everything. Involve an immigration attorney early.
Key points:
- I-220A and I-220B can include similar supervision rules, but they are not the same document.
- Travel is restricted. You usually need written permission for overnight or out-of-area travel.
- Missed check-ins and unreported address or phone changes are common violation triggers.
- Ask for condition changes in writing when rules conflict with work, school, or medical care.
- Keep copies of every check-in receipt, email, and instruction from ERO.
What is an Order of Supervision?
An Order of Supervision is a set of conditions ICE ERO imposes when ICE allows someone to remain in the community. It is not a visa. It is not permanent status. It is a supervision agreement. ICE may set the rules based on your immigration history, prior compliance, and any public-safety concerns.
I-220A vs I-220B: what is the difference?
- I-220A (Order of Release on Recognizance): Often issued at release from custody, or at the border, to document release and reporting obligations. It may be used in different procedural contexts.
- I-220B (Order of Supervision): Typically used when ICE has a final order and is supervising someone who cannot be removed immediately, or who has been released under supervision conditions.
In practice, both forms can impose similar rules. Always read the “Conditions of Release” section and any attachments. If you are unsure which form you have, look at the form number in the bottom corner and keep a clean scan for your records.
Common check-in rules
Most orders require some combination of these:
- In-person reporting: Scheduled visits at an ICE ERO office.
- Phone reporting: Calls or voice verification from a registered number.
- App reporting: SmartLINK check-ins for some people.
- Document updates: Provide pay stubs, proof of address, or identification.
- Compliance reminders: Return calls and messages promptly.
Travel limits: what “permission” usually means
- Local travel: Many people are allowed to move within a defined area, often the metro area or a specific county range.
- Overnight travel: Often requires advance written permission, even within the same state.
- Out-of-state travel: Commonly requires written permission and may be denied depending on case posture.
- Air travel: Higher scrutiny. Some offices require advance approval and specific documents.
How to request travel permission the right way
- Ask early. Many offices need time to review.
- Request in writing by email if possible. Keep a copy.
- Provide dates, destination address, purpose, and proof such as medical appointment letters, funeral notices, or employer travel requirements.
- Ask for a written approval letter and carry it during travel.
Address, phone, and employment reporting
- Address changes: Report before you move when possible. Provide lease or utility start letters.
- Phone changes: Report immediately. Missed calls from ICE can be treated as noncompliance.
- Employment changes: Report new job, new hours, or new work location when requested by your conditions.
What counts as a violation
- Missing or arriving late to a scheduled check-in.
- Traveling outside the approved area without written permission.
- Not reporting an address, phone, or job change.
- Ignoring calls, emails, letters, or SmartLINK prompts.
- Providing incomplete or false information.
- New arrests or active warrants.
What happens after a violation
Consequences depend on the facts. ICE may reschedule the check-in, increase supervision, require more frequent reporting, or detain you. The response is often more severe when violations repeat or when ICE believes you are trying to avoid supervision.
If you miss a check-in, do this immediately
- Call your case officer or ERO office the same day.
- Email a short explanation and attach proof, such as a doctor note or work schedule.
- Ask for a make-up appointment and written confirmation that you are back in compliance.
- Do not wait for the next scheduled date.
How to request a change to supervision conditions
If your rules make it hard to keep a job, attend school, or get medical care, you can ask ICE to modify conditions. Requests are stronger when you show stability and compliance.
- Write a short request explaining the conflict and the solution you are asking for.
- Attach proof, such as a work schedule, school schedule, or medical treatment plan.
- Ask for a written decision and keep it with your records.
Documents to bring to an in-person ERO check-in
- Photo ID and A-Number.
- Copy of your I-220A or I-220B and any attachments.
- Proof of address, lease, utility bill, or letter from landlord.
- Employment letter and recent pay stubs, if applicable.
- Any approvals, such as travel permission letters.
When you should speak with an attorney
- You have a final order of removal, prior deportation, or missed check-ins.
- You want to file a motion to reopen, asylum, adjustment, or another form of relief.
- You need travel permission, especially out of state.
- ICE increases supervision or threatens detention.
Helpful links
- ICE ERO field offices: ice.gov/ero
- ICE Identify and Monitor, alternatives and supervision: ice.gov/identify-and-monitor
- Local help and strategy: Monrreallaw.com – Immigration Services
This article is general information, not legal advice. Orders and conditions vary by ERO office and your case. If you have questions about your specific terms, get legal advice before you travel or change addresses.