He is allowed to do everything that is allowed to him.
What can an illegal immigrant do released as he goes through hearings?
Most people released from ICE custody—whether on bond, parole, or recognizance—are allowed to:
They are not confined. They can reside at an address of their choosing, though they must keep ICE and the immigration court updated with any address changes.This is consistent with the fact that many immigrants historically have been released on bond while their cases proceed.
They must appear for:
- Master Calendar Hearings (initial scheduling and rights advisement)
- Merits hearings (where their case is decided)
Missing a hearing can result in an automatic removal order.
They have the right to hire an attorney at their own expense and to consult legal aid organizations.Master Calendar Hearings specifically inform them of this right.
Depending on their situation, they may apply for:
- Asylum
- Withholding of removal
- Protection under the Convention Against Torture
- Cancellation of removal
- Adjustment of status (in limited cases)
Not everyone qualifies immediately.But asylum applicants, for example, may apply for work authorization after meeting the statutory waiting period.]
They can travel domestically, but:
- They must keep ICE informed of their address
- They must stay reachable for check‑ins
- Travel near ports of entry or airports can risk additional scrutiny
Depending on the release terms, they may have:
- Check‑ins
- Electronic monitoring
- Reporting requirements
These conditions vary by case.This is where your forum thread comes into play—some posters were speculating incorrectly.
A released immigrant
cannot:
They need an approved Employment Authorization Document (EAD).Working without authorization is a separate violation.
Some states allow undocumented residents to obtain limited‑purpose driver’s licenses; others do not.
Failure to appear leads to a removal order.
Release from detention
does not grant legal immigration status.It only means they are not being held while the case proceeds.
The search results show that courts sometimes require ICE to release people because:
- ICE policies improperly denied bond eligibility
- Courts ruled that immigrants have the right to request bond hearings again