The Trump administration is preparing to impose daily fines of $998 on undocumented immigrants who have been ordered to be deported but remain in the United States. This policy is intended to encourage self-deportation.

According to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official, the government is urging undocumented immigrants to utilize the CBP Home app to voluntarily leave the country. Failure to do so will result in penalties.

The administration intends to apply these fines retroactively, potentially for up to five years, based on a 1996 law that was previously not enforced. This could lead to fines exceeding $1 million for some individuals. The government also has the authority to seize property from those who do not pay the fines.

A flyer distributed by the government outlines the advantages and disadvantages of self-deportation. Self-deportation is presented as a safe option, allowing individuals to choose their departure date.

The flyer also details the consequences of not self-deporting. These include apprehension by DHS without prior notice, the daily fine of $998 for non-compliance with deportation orders, and fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for failing to self-deport after indicating intent to do so. Additional penalties include potential jail time and a ban from re-entering the U.S. through legal immigration channels.