What is an "ICE hold"?

An "ICE hold" refers to a request by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to a local law enforcement agency to continue holding an individual in custody for potential immigration enforcement actions. When someone is arrested and is subject to an ICE hold, it means that ICE believes this person may be in violation of immigration laws and wishes to take custody of them for possible deportation proceedings.

This hold typically occurs when the individual does not have lawful immigration status or has previously been removed from the U.S. and is found again in the country. Local law enforcement agencies are notified to detain the individual beyond their regular release time, allowing ICE to take the necessary steps to initiate immigration enforcement proceedings, which may include filing for removal.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of an ICE hold. A request to release an individual from custody contradicts the purpose of an ICE hold as it seeks continued detention rather than release. Notifications regarding visa renewal requirements and forms of temporary protections do not relate to the enforcement actions associated with ICE holds.