Key Takeaways
• As of January 21, 2025, expedited removal applies nationwide to those without two years of continuous US presence.
• ICE officers have daily arrest quotas between 1,200 and 1,500, including in sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.
• Daily fines up to $998 retroactively apply for five years to those ignoring final removal orders.
The United States 🇺🇸 has launched a sweeping expansion of expedited removal, changing the landscape for undocumented immigrants and those with temporary protection status. As of January 21, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) now allows immigration officers to remove anyone found anywhere in the country who cannot prove they have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 continuously for at least two years. This move, combined with new enforcement measures by ICE, daily fines, and stricter rules for people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and DACA, has created a climate of fear and uncertainty for millions.
What Is Expedited Removal and Who Is Affected?
Expedited removal is a process that lets immigration officers quickly deport certain people without a hearing before an immigration judge. Under the new rules, any undocumented person found anywhere in the United States 🇺🇸 who cannot show proof of two years of continuous presence can be removed immediately. This is a major change from the past, when expedited removal was only used for people caught within 14 days of arrival and within 100 miles of a land border.
Key facts about the new policy:
– Applies nationwide: No longer limited to border areas.
– Covers anyone undocumented: If you cannot prove two years of continuous presence, you are at risk.
– No court hearing: Most people will not see a judge before being removed.
– Limited exceptions: Only those who express a fear of returning to their home country may get a “credible fear interview” to see if they qualify for asylum.
According to analysis from VisaVerge.com, this expansion could affect hundreds of thousands of people, including long-term residents who may not have documents to prove their time in the country.
How the Expedited Removal Process Works
The process is fast and strict. Here’s how it usually happens:
- Arrest: ICE or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers arrest someone they believe is undocumented.
- Screening: Officers ask for proof of two years of continuous presence in the United States 🇺🇸. This could include bills, pay stubs, school records, or other documents.
- Order of removal: If the person cannot provide proof, the officer issues an expedited removal order.
- Fear claim: If the person says they are afraid to return to their home country, they are referred for a “credible fear interview.”
- Credible fear interview (CFI):
- If the officer finds credible fear, the person can go to regular immigration court.
- If not, the removal order stands, but the person can ask for a limited review by an immigration judge within 7 days.
Important: Most people do not get a chance to see a judge or present their case unless they claim fear of return and pass the credible fear interview.
For more details on expedited removal, you can visit the DHS official guidance.
ICE Enforcement Surge: New Quotas and Sensitive Locations
The Department of Homeland Security has also ordered ICE to step up enforcement. Officers now have daily arrest quotas of 1,200 to 1,500 people. This is a sharp increase from previous years.
What’s new about enforcement:
– Sensitive locations: ICE can now arrest people in places that were once considered off-limits, such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
– Daily quotas: Officers are under pressure to meet high daily arrest numbers.
– Data sharing: The IRS is now sharing taxpayer information with ICE to help identify people for removal.
– Social Security numbers: The government has started revoking Social Security numbers for flagged migrants, which can cut off access to jobs, banking, and credit.
Community organizations report that these changes have made many immigrants afraid to go to school, seek medical care, or attend religious services.
Fines and Asset Seizures for Noncompliance
A new penalty system has been introduced for people under final removal orders. If someone has been ordered to leave the United States 🇺🇸 but does not depart, they can face daily fines of up to $998. These fines can be applied retroactively for up to five years, creating a huge financial burden.
Key points:
– Daily fines: Up to $998 per day for not leaving after a removal order.
– Retroactive: Fines can be charged for up to five years in the past.
– Asset seizures: The government is considering taking property from people who do not pay these fines.
This policy targets an estimated 1.4 million people with final removal orders. For many families, these fines could mean losing their homes, cars, or savings.
Risks for TPS, DACA, and Humanitarian Status Holders
People with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), DACA, or other humanitarian protections face new risks, especially when it comes to travel.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Not removable while active: As long as TPS is valid, the person cannot be deported.
- Advance parole required for travel: To travel outside the United States 🇺🇸, TPS holders must apply for advance parole using Form I-131.
- Risk if TPS ends: If TPS is terminated, benefits end 60 days after the notice is published in the Federal Register.
- Travel to home country: Going back to the country you claimed was unsafe can be used as evidence that you no longer fear returning, which may end your protection.
DACA and Advance Parole
- Advance parole needed: DACA recipients must also use Form I-131 to get permission to travel.
- Reentry not guaranteed: Even with advance parole, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers can deny reentry.
- Legal uncertainty: DACA’s future is still being decided in the courts, making travel even riskier.
Asylum Seekers
- Travel to home country: If you travel to the country where you claimed you were in danger, the government may say you no longer need protection and could end your asylum status.
Practical advice: Always talk to a qualified immigration attorney before making travel plans or if you are facing removal proceedings.
Community Impact and Stakeholder Responses
The changes have caused fear and confusion in immigrant communities across the United States 🇺🇸. Many people are afraid to go to work, school, or even seek medical care.
Community organizations report:
– Increased fear and stress among families.
– Children missing school because parents are afraid of ICE arrests.
– People avoiding hospitals, even when sick, due to fear of enforcement actions.
State Attorneys General in some areas have issued guidance to help local organizations respond to ICE requests and to reassure immigrant communities that they will continue to protect sensitive locations where possible.
Immigrant advocacy groups have filed lawsuits challenging the new rules and are providing “know your rights” information to help people understand what to do if approached by ICE.
Legal Challenges and Due Process Concerns
Legal experts warn that the expansion of expedited removal raises serious concerns about due process—the right to a fair hearing. Many long-term residents may not have documents to prove two years of continuous presence, especially if they have lived “under the radar” for many years.
Key concerns:
– No court hearing: Most people will not see a judge before being removed.
– Risk of wrongful deportation: People who have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 for years may be removed if they cannot quickly provide proof.
– Limited review: Only those who claim fear of return and pass a credible fear interview can get a hearing.
Advocacy groups stress the importance of carrying proof of presence and knowing your rights if stopped by ICE.
Historical Background: How Did We Get Here?
The authority for expedited removal comes from the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA). For many years, it was only used at the border or for recent arrivals. In 2019–2020, the Trump administration tried to expand it, but lawsuits delayed implementation. The Biden administration rolled back these changes, but in 2025, President Trump reinstated and expanded expedited removal nationwide.
Sensitive locations were once protected from enforcement actions, but these protections have now been removed.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Are at Risk
If you are undocumented or have a temporary protection status, here are some steps you can take:
- Carry proof of presence: Keep copies of bills, pay stubs, school records, or other documents that show you have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 for at least two years.
- Know your rights: You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or show documents unless ICE has a warrant signed by a judge.
- Seek legal help: If you are arrested or receive a removal order, contact a qualified immigration attorney immediately.
- Apply for advance parole: If you have TPS or DACA and need to travel, apply for advance parole using Form I-131 and wait for approval before leaving the country.
- Avoid risky travel: Do not travel to your home country if you have claimed asylum or TPS based on danger there.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Immigrants?
The future remains uncertain. Lawsuits are ongoing, and some executive orders have been blocked by the courts, but the expansion of expedited removal is in effect for now. The administration is considering even more enforcement measures, such as property seizures for unpaid fines and expanded data-sharing to find removable individuals.
TPS terminations for some countries may be coming, with benefits ending 60 days after notice. DACA remains at risk due to court challenges.
Guantánamo Bay has been reactivated as a detention center, with space for up to 30,000 detainees, signaling the government’s intent to continue large-scale enforcement.
Resources for Help and More Information
If you or someone you know is affected by these changes, here are some resources:
- USCIS Temporary Protected Status: Visit the USCIS TPS page for country-specific information and how to apply.
- DHS Expedited Removal Guidance: Check the DHS website for official notices and updates.
- Legal assistance: Find a qualified immigration attorney through the American Immigration Lawyers Association or local legal aid groups.
- Advocacy organizations: Groups like the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) and the American Immigration Council offer resources and support.
Takeaways and Practical Steps
- Expedited removal now applies nationwide to anyone who cannot prove two years of continuous presence.
- ICE enforcement has increased, with daily quotas and actions in sensitive locations.
- Fines and asset seizures are possible for those who do not comply with removal orders.
- TPS, DACA, and asylum holders face new risks, especially related to travel.
- Legal help is more important than ever. Always consult an attorney before traveling or if you are facing removal.
Staying informed and prepared is the best way to protect yourself and your family during these uncertain times. For ongoing updates and analysis, VisaVerge.com reports that monitoring official government sources and seeking legal advice are key steps for anyone affected by these sweeping changes.
Learn Today
Expedited Removal → A fast-track deportation process allowing removal without a court hearing for certain undocumented immigrants.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → A temporary immigration status protecting eligible nationals from deportation due to unsafe conditions in their home countries.
Credible Fear Interview → An interview to determine if a person fearing return to their country qualifies for asylum protection.
Advance Parole → A travel permit that allows TPS or DACA holders to leave and reenter the United States legally.
Sensitive Locations → Places such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship that historically limited ICE enforcement actions.
This Article in a Nutshell
The US expanded expedited removal nationwide in 2025, enabling quick deportations without hearings. ICE increased arrests and fines, pressuring undocumented immigrants and TPS or DACA holders to prove two years’ residence or face penalties. Communities live in fear, with legal challenges ongoing to protect immigrant rights amid stricter enforcement.
— By VisaVerge.com
