Trump administration implements 60-day self-deportation deadline for undocumented immigrants, offering potential legal re-entry for those who comply while threatening jail time for those who refuse to register with the government.
Quick Takes
- The Trump administration is requiring undocumented immigrants over age 13 to register with the federal government or face criminal penalties including jail time and fines.
- Individuals who self-deport within the 60-day window may have the opportunity to return legally, especially farmworkers and hotel employees with employer support.
- A new registration system will require undocumented immigrants to submit fingerprints and carry documentation at all times.
- The administration reports that voluntary removal efforts are already underway, with over 5,000 people using the CBP Home app last month.
- The policy does not apply to legal permanent residents, those with visas (even if overstayed), or immigrants in court proceedings.
New Registry Requirements and Penalties
The Trump administration has unveiled a sweeping policy requiring undocumented immigrants 14 or older who have been in the United States for more than 30 days to register with the federal government or face serious consequences. This initiative, based on a World War II-era law originally designed to identify suspected communists, mandates that eligible undocumented individuals submit fingerprints and other identifying information. Parents or legal guardians must register on behalf of teenagers subject to these requirements. Those who fail to comply could face criminal prosecution, including potential jail time and fines.
Registered individuals will receive a document they must carry and keep in their possession at all times, according to officials. However, the policy includes notable exceptions: it does not apply to legal permanent residents, immigrants under parole, those with visas (even if overstayed), or individuals with government work permits or in immigration court proceedings. The administration has framed this registry requirement as part of a broader strategy to encourage self-deportation.
Illegal aliens should use the CBP Home app to self-deport and LEAVE the country now. If they don’t, they will face the consequences. pic.twitter.com/5XmNgGyEk2
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) April 10, 2025
60-Day Window for Self-Deportation
At the heart of the administration’s approach is a 60-day deadline for undocumented immigrants to leave the country voluntarily. President Trump has indicated that those who depart within this timeframe may have the opportunity to return through legal channels, particularly workers in essential industries like agriculture and hospitality. This selective approach acknowledges the significant role undocumented labor plays in certain economic sectors while maintaining a firm stance on enforcement.
“We’re going to work with them right from the beginning on, trying to get them back in legally. So it gives you real incentive. Otherwise they never come back. They’ll never be allowed once a certain period of time goes by, which is probably going to be 60 days,” Trump said.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has confirmed the administration’s focus on self-deportation, describing it as “a very big self-deport operation that we’re starting.” The approach represents a significant shift in immigration enforcement strategy, emphasizing voluntary compliance before more aggressive measures are implemented. Officials have already begun reporting early successes, with thousands of individuals reportedly using existing resources to leave the country.
Industry-Specific Considerations
The administration has acknowledged the potential economic disruption that mass deportations could cause in sectors heavily reliant on immigrant labor. President Trump specifically noted that accommodations would be considered for agricultural and hospitality workers, sectors where undocumented labor has long been prevalent. This pragmatic approach reflects growing pressure from industry groups concerned about workforce stability amid intensified immigration enforcement.
“So a farmer will come in with a letter concerning certain people, saying they’re great, they’re working hard. We’re going to slow it down a little bit for them, and then we’re going to ultimately bring them back. They’ll go out. They’re going to come back as legal workers,” Trump explained.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role many undocumented workers play in food supply chains and other critical infrastructure. The administration appears to be seeking a balance between enforcement priorities and economic realities, potentially improving existing temporary worker programs like H-2A and H-2B, which employers have often criticized as cumbersome. Farm associations and business coalitions have been actively lobbying for workable solutions that address labor needs while satisfying enforcement objectives.
Assistance Programs for Returnees
Beyond enforcement mechanisms, the administration is developing support programs for those who choose to self-deport. These initiatives aim to ease the transition back to immigrants’ home countries with resources for basic necessities. Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin emphasized the administration’s message: “President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream.”
Secretary Noem has underscored the importance of these assistance efforts, stating that “[We are] making sure that these folks have the opportunity to go home, so that they can get the chance to come back to America is important.” The programs being developed reportedly include food and housing assistance for those returning to their countries of origin, reflecting a more comprehensive approach to immigration enforcement that considers both departure and reintegration processes.
