Washington D.C., April 13, 2025 — In a stern new directive, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Trump administration has issued a 30-day ultimatum to foreign nationals staying in the country without legal authorization, warning them to leave voluntarily or face severe consequences, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
In a social media post titled “Message to Illegal Aliens”, DHS declared: “Foreign nationals present in the US longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply is a crime punishable by fines and imprisonment.” The department tagged both President Donald Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Krisi Noem, emphasizing a coordinated push toward stricter immigration enforcement.
The new advisory encourages illegal immigrants to consider self-deportation, claiming it to be a safer and more financially beneficial route. The DHS post reads:
"Self-deportation is safe. Leave on your own terms by picking your departure flight. Keep money earned in the US if you self-deport as a non-criminal illegal alien."
Officials also stated that individuals who self-deport may retain the opportunity for future legal entry into the United States and, if financially constrained, may qualify for a subsidized flight.
The consequences for failing to register or leave are significant:
$998 per day fine for individuals who have received a final order of removal but remain in the country.
$1,000 to $5,000 fine for those who declare they will self-deport but fail to follow through.
Potential jail time for repeat violations or failure to comply with deportation orders.
Long-term bans on re-entry through legal immigration channels.
While the new directive does not directly impact legal visa holders such as those on H-1B or student visas, it serves as a warning that any lapse in visa status could result in action. Individuals who lose their job or fall out of status must ensure they exit the country or transition lawfully within the stipulated grace period to avoid penalties.
The move marks another decisive step in the Trump administration’s hardline immigration agenda, with the Homeland Security Department emphasizing its commitment to identifying and removing undocumented individuals living in the United States.
