Phone Calls, Mail, and Visits in ICE Detention
Communication rules vary by facility. This page explains what is typical, what to ask, and how to confirm details.
Official ICE Detention Facility Directory: https://www.ice.gov/detention-facilities
If you have not yet confirmed the facility location, first read:
→ How to Confirm Detention
→ First 24 Hours Checklist
Important Disclaimer
This page provides general informational guidance.
Policies vary by facility and may change.
This is not legal advice.
. 1 — Confirm the Facility’s Communication System
Each ICE detention facility contracts with a specific phone service provider.
Use the ICE facility directory: https://www.ice.gov/detention-facilities
On the facility page, look for:
• Telephone access
• Visitation
• Mail policies
• Commissary
If unclear, call the facility directly and ask:
• What phone vendor is used?
• How does family add funds?
• Are prepaid accounts required?
• Are there free legal calls available?
. 2 — How Long Are Calls Allowed?
Typical call limits (varies by facility):
• Often 15–30 minutes per call
• Some facilities limit total daily minutes
• Legal calls may not count against standard limits
Confirm directly with the facility for exact limits.
. 3 — How Often Can Someone Call?
Frequency depends on:
• Housing unit rules
• Availability of phones
• Facility population size
There is usually no guaranteed unlimited access.
Phones may operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ask the facility:
• Are there daily call time limits?
• Are phones available during all waking hours?
• Are there blackout periods?
. 4 — Can International Calls Be Made?
Many facilities allow international calls, but:
• Rates are typically higher
• The facility phone vendor must support international dialing
• Family may need to create an account with the vendor
Confirm with the facility phone provider listed on the facility page.
. 5 — How Much Do Calls Cost?
Costs vary depending on:
• Facility vendor
• Local vs long-distance vs international
• Prepaid vs collect calls
Ask:
• What are the per-minute rates?
• Are there account setup fees?
• Is there a deposit minimum?
The facility will not allow use of personal mobile phone plans.
. 6 — Can a Detainee Use Their Own Cell Phone?
No.
Personal cell phones are typically confiscated during intake.
Detainees use only facility-installed phones.
. 7 — Can Family or Friends Call In?
In most facilities:
• Incoming calls to detainees are not permitted.
• Communication must be initiated by the detainee.
Exceptions may exist for verified legal counsel.
If someone needs to pass urgent information:
• Contact the facility directly
• Ask whether a message can be relayed
. 8 — Can the Person Keep a Phone While in Custody?
No.
Personal devices are generally not allowed in housing units.
. 9 — Legal Calls
Detainees generally have access to confidential calls with attorneys.
Ask the facility:
• Are legal calls free?
• How are they scheduled?
• Is attorney verification required?
For help locating counsel:
AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association): https://www.ailalawyer.com/
EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review) Pro Bono list: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/list-pro-bono-legal-service-providers
. 10 — Mail and Written Communication
Use the ICE facility directory to confirm mailing instructions: https://www.ice.gov/detention-facilities
Ask:
• Must A-number be included?
• Are photos allowed?
• Are there size limits?
• Are books permitted?
. 11 — What If Calls Suddenly Stop?
Possible reasons:
• Facility transfer
• Account funding issue
• Housing restriction
• Disciplinary measures
If transfer suspected:
Re-check ICE locator: https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search
Then review:
Clear communication requires confirming rules directly with the specific facility. Always verify details before sending money or setting up accounts.