Trump administration imposes $84 billion in civil fines against immigrants

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said it has issued more than $84 billion in civil fines to undocumented immigrants who remain in the country despite receiving final orders of removal. The department said more than 103,000 fines have been issued since the beginning of President Donald Trump's administration as part of its immigration enforcement measures.

According to DHS, undocumented immigrants who fail to leave the United States after receiving a final order of removal can face civil fines of $998 per day until they depart.

DHS urges self-deportation

The department said undocumented immigrants can avoid these penalties by leaving the country voluntarily through the CBP Home mobile application.


"Under President Trump and Secretary Mullin, DHS is working faster than ever before to remove criminal illegal aliens from our country," Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said.

"Our message to illegal aliens is clear: LEAVE NOW. If you don't you will face the consequences, including fines, arrest, and deportation. Illegal aliens have a choice: They can use the CBP Home app and receive a free flight home and $2,600, or be fined, arrested, and deported," she said.

Changes to fine process

DHS said that in June 2025, it and the US Department of Justice introduced a streamlined process for issuing civil fines to undocumented immigrants.

The changes included removing the previous 30-day notice period before issuing a fine, allowing immigration officers to send notices through regular mail, and shortening the process for individuals who choose to contest the penalties.

Incentives for voluntary departure

According to DHS, undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the United States using the CBP Home app will have outstanding civil fines and penalties forgiven.

The department said participants will also receive a free flight to their home country and an exit payment of $2,600.

DHS said individuals who do not use the programme may face arrest, deportation and restrictions on returning to the United States in the future.