The ICE detainee locator helps families and attorneys locate people held in US immigration custody. This guide explains how to search using an A-Number or personal details, find detention facilities, contact ICE when a record is missing, and check immigration court case information through official sources.
Families searching for someone detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can use the official ICE detainee locator to check immigration custody records. The free Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS) allows users to search by an identification number or personal information.
However, some detainees may not appear immediately, and the system does not display records for children under 18.
How to use the ICE detainee locator
Visit locator.ice.gov, the official ICE detention search website.
The system provides two search methods: Alien Registration Number (A-Number) and country of birth, or the person's full name and country of birth.
Date-of-birth details can help identify the correct person. ICE recommends using the A-Number when available because it is unique to each individual.
How to search by A-Number
An A-Number is an immigration identification number found on certain Department of Homeland Security and immigration court documents.
Enter the number as nine digits, adding leading zeros if necessary, and select the correct country of birth.
The locator may identify the detention facility holding the person.
What if the detainee is not found?
A missing result does not necessarily mean the person is outside immigration custody.
Records may take time to appear, individuals may be transferred, and certain information is excluded from public searches.
Check the spelling and identifying details. If the search remains unsuccessful, contact the appropriate ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) field office.
How to contact ICE about a detainee
ICE operates a Detention Reporting and Information Line at 1-888-351-4024.
Live operators are generally available Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
Families can also contact the detention facility directly after confirming its location.
How to check immigration court status
The ICE locator identifies detention information but does not provide a complete immigration court record.
To check immigration proceedings, use the Justice Department's automated case information system or call 1-800-898-7180.
Court information and detention records serve different purposes. Families seeking legal assistance should consult a qualified immigration attorney, particularly when hearings or removal deadlines may be involved.
