At a glance (120 words): ISAP is ICE’s Alternatives to Detention program. It can use SmartLINK phone check-ins, voice ID calls, in-person visits, curfews, or GPS ankle monitors. A “violation” usually means missed or late check-ins, ignored calls or app prompts, travel outside permitted areas, address or phone changes not reported, device tampering or dead batteries, curfew breaches, or new criminal arrests. The fix is fast action and documentation. Call your case specialist, explain what happened, and offer proof like employer notes, medical records, or travel approvals. Ask for a same-day make-up check-in, get confirmations in writing, and keep a log. If rules were unclear or too strict for your job or caregiving, request a level adjustment with evidence. Bring an attorney into all communications.
Key points:
- Respond same day to missed calls, app alerts, or check-ins.
- Document everything, keep copies, ask for written confirmations.
- Report address, phone, or job changes before they happen when possible.
- Get written permission for travel or schedule changes.
- Ask for a lower supervision level if you are compliant and have stability.
How ISAP works
ISAP is supervision by ICE ERO. The level can include any combination of SmartLINK app check-ins, voice ID calls from a registered number, curfews, home or office visits, and GPS ankle monitoring. Requirements can change if compliance improves, or increase after violations.
What counts as a violation
- Missed or late check-ins: In-person, phone, or app.
- Ignored outreach: Not returning calls, texts, or app prompts.
- Geofence or travel issues: Leaving the approved area, overnight trips, or crossing state lines without written permission.
- Address/phone/job changes not reported: Moving, switching phones, changing employers or shifts without notice.
- Device problems: Dead phone or monitor battery, broken strap, deleting SmartLINK, or using a different phone than the one on file.
- Curfew breaches or missed home visits.
- New criminal arrests or warrants.
If you miss a check-in: step-by-step
- Call your ISAP case specialist or ERO office immediately.
- Explain briefly, offer a same-day make-up check-in or video call.
- Email or upload proof (work schedule, supervisor note, ER discharge, flight delay).
- Ask for written confirmation that you checked in and the account is current.
- Record date, time, who you spoke with, and any instructions.
Evidence that cures violations
- Work proof: Timesheets, clock-in screenshots, supervisor letters with contact info.
- Medical proof: Appointment cards, discharge papers, prescriptions, therapy letters.
- Travel proof: Written approval emails, bus/flight receipts, hotel confirmations.
- Tech proof: Phone repair tickets, screenshots of app errors, battery or charger purchase receipts.
- Address proof: Lease, utility setup letters, landlord note with phone number.
Address, phone, and employment changes
Tell ISAP/ERO in advance. Submit new address, phone, and work details in writing. Keep screenshots or receipts confirming the update. If you also have a USCIS case, file the USCIS change of address too.
Travel and curfews
- Ask for written permission before leaving your county or state, or before any overnight trip.
- If curfew conflicts with work or medical care, request a curfew change with proof.
- Carry your approval email and show it at check-ins.
Device problems and emergencies
- Dead battery: Charge fully, then call to document the event.
- Lost, broken, or stolen phone/monitor: File a police or carrier report, send the report number, and request a replacement or office check-in.
- App issues: Re-install SmartLINK on the registered phone, send screenshots of errors, and do an office check-in if requested.
Requesting a lower level or different technology
If you have months of clean compliance, stable housing, steady work, and no criminal issues, ask for a level reduction or to switch from GPS to app/voice. Attach proof. Ask for a written decision.
Red-flag patterns that increase detention risk
- Repeated no-shows or curfew breaches.
- Address unknown, phone off for days, or device tampering.
- New criminal arrests, warrants, or probation violations.
- Prior removal order with ongoing non-compliance.
What to bring to every in-person check-in
- Photo ID and A-Number.
- Proof of address and employer letter or recent pay stubs.
- Medical or school letters if schedules limit your availability.
- List of dates you need schedule changes or travel permission.
Helpful links
- ISAP / Alternatives to Detention overview: ice.gov/identify-and-monitor
- ICE ERO field offices: ice.gov/ero
- Local help and strategy: Monrreallaw.com – Immigration Services
This article is general information, not legal advice. Supervision terms vary by office and case. Speak with an attorney about your facts.