The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Thursday that it has issued over $84 billion in civil fines to undocumented immigrants who have failed to depart the country following final removal orders.
According to agency figures, federal authorities have sent out more than 103,000 individual fines under the current administration. The financial penalties accrue at a rate of $998 per day for individuals who remain in the United States after receiving an official order to leave.
The daily penalties follow procedural changes implemented in June 2025. In a joint effort, DHS and the U.S. Department of Justice streamlined the enforcement process by eliminating a previously required 30-day notice of intent to fine. The updated guidelines also authorized immigration officers to deliver penalty notices through regular mail and shortened the appeals process for individuals contesting their fines.
In a press statement released with the announcement, Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis addressed the department’s enforcement strategy and available options for non-citizens.
“Under President Trump and Secretary Mullin, DHS is working faster than ever before to remove criminal illegal aliens from our country,” 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.”
Federal officials noted that individuals who schedule their voluntary departure through the CBP Home app are eligible for full forgiveness of any accrued civil penalties. The program provides participants with complimentary return airfare alongside a $2,600 exit bonus.
Department officials warned that individuals who do not utilize the voluntary departure program face arrest, deportation, and a permanent ban from re-entering the United States.
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