USCIS Begins Deportation Proceedings for Over 26,700 Immigrants in the U.S.

From February 28, when the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released its new operational guidelines, up until June 12, the agency has commenced deportation proceedings against more than 26,700 immigrants residing in the United States without legal authorization. This updated guidance empowers USCIS to issue Notices to Appear (NTA) in all instances where a foreign national receives a denial for immigration applications such as asylum, permanent residency, or work permits.

This action aligns with President Donald Trump's directive under his Executive Order aimed at "Protecting the American People from Invasion," which strengthens immigration control as a key element of his policy. The revised procedure could lead to the deportation of thousands of immigrants who have sought asylum through the federal agency.

"Any foreign national denied an immigration benefit, including asylum, green cards, and work permits, will receive a Notice to Appear (NTA)," USCIS stated on X. "We are here to assist ICE in enforcing our nation's laws and removing foreign nationals from the country," the agency added.

USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser mentioned that under President Trump's and Secretary Noem's leadership, sensible policies have been reinstated, resulting in tens of thousands of NTAs being issued since February 2025. According to Tragesser, USCIS is reviewing immigration petitions and applications, issuing approximately 1,840 NTAs weekly, which includes 500 NTAs concerning asylum and 100 NTAs in Temporary Protected Status (TPS) cases weekly.

Additionally, there has been a 2,811% monthly increase in NTAs related to fraud since the Biden-Harris administration. "These efforts have curtailed the exploitation of the immigration system through humanitarian and TPS programs," the USCIS statement emphasized.

The new USCIS policy considers that foreign nationals benefiting from TPS may face deportation if their country's designation is canceled and they lack authorization to remain in the U.S. In such situations, they are advised to report their departure from the country via the CBP Home application.

Cuba: A Country Severely Impacted by Migration Crackdown

In late May, ICE conducted the largest deportation flight in five years to Havana, returning 130 Cuban citizens. This marked the fifth such flight in 2025, totaling 587 individuals repatriated from various countries in the region. The Trump administration has so far deported at least 376 Cubans since regaining power, resuming a pattern of mass repatriations that characterized his first term (2017-2021), when a historic record in this area was set.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also intensified raids at workplaces, schools, and courts, instilling fear among immigrant communities. In recent weeks, several Cubans were arrested, including some with documents like the I-220A or pending immigration processes, and others with criminal records and final deportation orders.

Their deportation, however, depends on the Cuban government's acceptance. Currently, over 42,000 Cubans with final deportation orders are under supervised release. According to the State Department, during flight preparations, Cuban authorities review the lists and reject most cases involving criminal history or prolonged stay.

As a result, at least two deportees were sent to third countries like South Sudan, while others remain detained or have been released due to legal detention limits.