Record 1.9 Million Undocumented Migrants Self-Deport Under Trump Administration as DHS Reports Historic Wave of Voluntary Departures

Nearly two million undocumented migrants have self-deported under the second Trump administration, according to Department of Homeland Security data released in a year-end assessment of 2025 accomplishments. The figure—1.9 million voluntary departures between January and mid-December—marks a significant shift in enforcement strategy as federal officials emphasize cost-effective measures to address border chaos.

DHS data indicates the administration has leveraged a dual approach combining aggressive enforcement with public pressure campaigns, resulting in an additional 600,000 deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement through targeted actions against individuals with criminal histories. This combination has been described as critical for managing a system strained during years of prior leadership.

Former immigration judge Andrew Arthur noted that consistent law enforcement often prompts migrants to “get the message and leave on their own.” The administration amplifies this messaging through daily social media posts and publicized arrests, including recent cases targeting those previously deported and convicted of drug trafficking. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks asserted the campaign’s intent is clear: “Do not come.”

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated migrants refusing voluntary departure programs will be “found,” “arrested,” and “never [allowed to] return” to the United States. The administration has expanded incentives, tripling the exit bonus from $1,000 to $3,000 for undocumented individuals using the rebranded CBP Home app to depart by December 31, alongside free airfare and civil fine waivers.

DHS officials claim these measures save taxpayer funds, with ICE estimates showing the average cost of arresting, detaining, and deporting a migrant exceeds $17,000—far higher than government-assisted exit benefits. While some analysts question whether DHS’s 1.9 million figure includes legal migrants or reflects incomplete data, even skeptics acknowledge rising departure trends as enforcement intensifies.

The administration maintains this strategy delivers on promises to restore border security and reduce illegal immigration without relying solely on large-scale arrests.