The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued 103,000 civil fines totaling approximately $84 billion to illegal immigrants since President Donald Trump returned to the White House about 18 months ago, according to a DHS official who spoke with Fox News Digital.

As of July 2026, the agency had collected about $1.2 billion in fine payments. Shortly after Trump's return to office, the administration announced it would begin fining illegal immigrants subject to final removal orders $998 per day if they failed to voluntarily leave the United States or otherwise comply with their removal orders.

Illegal immigrants are required to pay these fines before deportation, and DHS has stated it may seize assets from those who fail to pay. The department also encourages illegal immigrants to self-deport using the CBP Home app, allowing them to "leave on your own terms by picking your departure flight."

In May 2026, Fox News Digital reported that more than 3 million illegal immigrants had left the United States during Trump's first year back in office, based on figures provided by DHS.

President Donald Trump was pictured shaking hands with newly sworn-in DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin during a ceremony at the White House's Oval Office on March 24, 2026.

Notable Quotes

  • "Leave on your own terms by picking your departure flight."
  • "Apprehended by DHS with no opportunity to get your affairs in order beforehand."
  • "For illegal immigrants who self-deport using the CBP Home app."

Sources