How do I find someone detained by ICE?

Use the ICE Online Detainee Locator at locator.ice.gov. Search by their A-Number (Alien Registration Number) or by their full name, date of birth, and country of birth. If they do not appear, wait 24-72 hours and try again, or call 1-888-351-4024.

Why is my family member not showing up in the ICE detainee locator?

It can take 24-72 hours after arrest for someone to appear in the system. They may also not show up if they are being transferred between facilities, are in local jail custody (not yet transferred to ICE), or if the name spelling differs from what you entered.

An A-Number (Alien Registration Number) is a 7 to 9-digit number assigned by USCIS to non-citizens. It appears on immigration documents like work permits, green cards, and immigration court notices. It is needed for many immigration processes.

How to Use the ICE Detainee Locator to Find a Detained Family Member

The ICE Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS) is a tool that lets you search for people currently in ICE immigration detention. Here is how to use it step by step.

How to Access the Detainee Locator

Visit locator.ice.gov. The system is available 24/7 and free to use.

What Information You Need

You can search using one of two methods:

Option 1 — Search by A-Number:

The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a 7, 8, or 9-digit number assigned to non-citizens. It appears on immigration documents like work permits, green cards, and court notices.

Option 2 — Search by biographical information:

Full legal name (first and last)
Date of birth
Country of birth

Understanding the Search Results

If the person is found, the locator will show:

Detention facility name — Where they are being held
Facility location — City and state
Their A-Number — Write this down; you will need it for all future communications

What If They Do Not Appear in the System?

There are several reasons someone may not show up:

Too soon after arrest — It can take 24 to 72 hours for someone to be entered into the system after being taken into custody.
Name spelling — Try different spellings of their name, including maiden names or alternate spellings.
Transfer in progress — People being moved between facilities may temporarily disappear from the system.
Not in ICE custody — They may be in local jail custody (arrested by local police) and not yet transferred to ICE. Contact local jails directly.
Already released or deported — The locator only shows people currently in custody.

If you still cannot find them, call the ICE detention reporting line at 1-888-351-4024 for assistance.

Next Steps After Locating Your Loved One

Contact an immigration attorney — Find free legal help at immigrationadvocates.org
Contact the facility — Call to learn visitation rules and phone policies
Gather documents — Collect immigration papers, proof of US ties, and character references
Attend hearings — Immigration court hearings are public; your presence shows community support

Monitor ICE Activity in Your Area

Stay informed about ICE operations near you with SpotICE. Our community-sourced map shows real-time reports of ICE checkpoints and raids, helping you stay aware and keep your family safe.