The Department of Homeland Security reports that approximately 1.6 million undocumented migrants have departed the United States in the first 200 days of Secretary Kristi Noem’s tenure. The reduction follows intensified enforcement operations, voluntary departure incentives, and the termination of previous entry programs, marking one of the fastest declines in recent history.
Significant Reduction in Illegal Immigrant Population
Officials say the reduction is the result of combined enforcement actions, voluntary departures, and policy changes designed to deter unlawful entry and encourage compliance with immigration laws.
Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the decline is already improving public safety, reducing the strain on government resources, and creating more job opportunities for American citizens. DHS describes the figure as one of the most significant and rapid population decreases in recent enforcement history.
Campaign Targeting Voluntary Departures
A multimillion-dollar international campaign, launched shortly after Secretary Noem took office, has been central to the administration’s efforts. The initiative warned individuals without legal status to leave voluntarily or face detention and deportation. The message was broadcast through television, radio, and digital platforms in multiple countries.
According to DHS data, the campaign is having a measurable impact. Voluntary departures have risen. This decrease lowers the need for long-term detention. It also allows enforcement resources to concentrate on high-priority cases that involve threats to public safety.
End of CBP One App and Launch of CBP Home App
As part of broader policy reforms, DHS ended the CBP One App. This system facilitated processing for over one million individuals under the prior administration. In its place, the department introduced the CBP Home App under Operation Homecoming.
The new system allows eligible individuals to set up their departure. The federal government provides $1,000 and a free flight for those who decide to voluntarily depart. DHS officials say this approach offers a cost-effective way to manage departures while ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
Focus on Criminal Alien Removal
President Trump and Secretary Noem have authorized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to prioritize the identification, arrest, and removal of criminal noncitizens. These include people convicted of violent crimes, gang members, and other serious offenders.
Targeted enforcement operations have taken place across the country, with support from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. DHS reports that these operations have significantly reduced the number of high-risk individuals residing illegally within the country.
Nationwide Impact of Population Decline
The decrease in the illegal immigrant population is already affecting communities across the United States. DHS cites early evidence of reduced pressure on schools, hospitals, and other public services. Additionally, some local job markets are showing signs of improvement. There are more employment opportunities for American workers.
Officials further state that while the results are encouraging, ongoing enforcement and deterrence work will be necessary to continue the downward trend and avoid subsequent spikes in illegal migration.
What’s Next? Continuing with the Strategy
Secretary Noem announced that DHS will continue to scale up Operation Homecoming and other enforcement activities. Plans include strengthening international partnerships, increasing removal logistics, and leveraging state-of-the-art technology to improve processing efficiency.
DHS maintains that the dual approach of deterrence and targeted enforcement is essential to maintaining border security, protecting public safety, and ensuring that immigration laws are upheld.
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Resources:
- https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/08/14/secretary-noem-announces-16-million-illegal-aliens-have-left-us
- https://www.foxnews.com/video/6376928858112
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk-Ar9pqm5Q
- https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5452421-trump-administration-deportations-decline/
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