Trump gives undocumented immigrants 60 days to leave America voluntarily before facing legal penalties, but offers a path to return legally if they follow his new self-deportation policy.
Quick Takes
- The Trump administration is implementing a 60-day window for undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the United States
- Those who self-deport may have an opportunity to return legally with employer support, particularly farm and hotel workers
- Immigrants over age 13 must register with the federal government or face criminal penalties including jail time and fines
- The policy does not apply to legal residents, visa holders, those with work permits or in court proceedings
- Over 5,000 undocumented individuals have already self-deported using government resources
New Registry Requirements and Penalties
The Trump administration has unveiled strict measures requiring undocumented immigrants over age 13 to register with the federal government or face serious consequences. These immigrants must complete registration through an online form. Those who comply will receive documentation they “must carry and keep in their possession at all times” according to officials. Failure to register could result in criminal prosecution, including potential jail time and fines. The initiative targets unauthorized immigrants 14 or older who have been in the United States for more than 30 days without registering.
“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,” said Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin.
This registry policy draws on a World War II-era law initially designed to identify suspected communists. However, there are significant exemptions. The registration requirement does not apply to legal permanent residents, immigrants under parole, those with visas (even if overstayed), or immigrants with government work permits or in immigration court proceedings. Parents or legal guardians must register on behalf of teenagers subject to the requirements.
60-Day Window for Self-Deportation
President Trump has established a 60-day timeline for undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the country, with incentives for certain workers to return legally. During a recent Cabinet meeting, Trump outlined the framework of this policy, emphasizing the need to balance immigration enforcement with economic concerns. The policy specifically recognizes the contribution of farm and hospitality workers to the American economy. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has characterized the initiative as “a very big self-deport operation that we’re starting.”
The administration is promoting self-deportation through technology like the CBP Home app, which has already facilitated the self-deportation of over 5,000 undocumented individuals. After the 60-day period expires, those who failed to leave voluntarily will face more severe enforcement actions.
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
Pathway for Legal Return
The Trump administration is creating systems to allow certain undocumented workers who voluntarily depart to apply for legal re-entry. This approach particularly targets agricultural and hospitality sectors, where undocumented labor has become essential. According to Trump, employers would be able to recommend reliable workers, providing letters vouching for their character and work ethic. This represents a significant concession to industries that heavily depend on immigrant labor and have expressed concerns about the economic impact of mass deportations.
“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,” said President Trump.
The administration acknowledges existing temporary worker programs like H-2A and H-2B but aims to improve them. These programs, which Trump himself has used in his businesses, are often criticized by employers as cumbersome. The pandemic highlighted the essential role of undocumented workers in certain sectors, creating pressure from industry groups for workable immigration solutions. The American Business Immigration Coalition has been actively advocating for immigrant work permits to address labor shortages.
Support Programs for Deportees
The administration is developing resources to support deported immigrants in their home countries. These initiatives include programs offering food and housing assistance to ease the transition for those who self-deport. Homeland Security Secretary Noem emphasized the importance of making the process as seamless as possible, stating, “[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.” This approach aims to make self-deportation more palatable while still maintaining the administration’s firm stance on unauthorized immigration.
