A Cuban asylum seeker, Gridiudis Roselló, has reported receiving a staggering $5,130 fine on December 15 after attending an appointment with ICE, despite being in the midst of an immigration process in the United States.
As highlighted in a report by Noticias 23, this type of sanction could potentially affect millions of migrants who entered the country without proper inspection, regardless of their length of stay or pending legal proceedings.
Roselló recounted that she was released with an I-220A form after crossing the southern border in February 2022. She never anticipated that attending her appointment would result in a fine notification.
In her statements cited by the media, she expressed her dissatisfaction with the measure, noting that the payment was due within 30 days.
Roselló also shared her experience on Facebook, mentioning that although her court date was set for September 2026, she was instructed to pay the fine within a month.
Legal Perspectives and Concerns
In the Noticias 23 report, immigration attorney Rosaly Chaviano explained that the government defines "entry without inspection" as entering the country without going through the formal inspection process.
Attorney John de la Vega revealed he has encountered "dozens of similar cases," including long-term U.S. residents facing fines under this provision. He suggested potential legal action, arguing that these penalties might be applied "retroactively."
De la Vega warned that failing to pay the fine promptly could lead to federal debt, with the government potentially withdrawing the amount from bank accounts, as per his explanation cited in the media.
Chaviano further noted that those receiving such notifications would be provided with instructions on how to appeal or contest the sanction.
Trump Administration's Hardline Policies
The second Trump administration has shifted from warning to widespread implementation of fines. Recently, it declared that nearly all immigrants detained for illegal entry would face a $5,000 fine, as part of a “self-deportation” campaign offering free flights and $1,000 cash to those who choose to leave the U.S. voluntarily.
Michael Banks, the Chief of the Border Patrol, announced the imposition of a $5,000 penalty on anyone crossing the southern border illegally.
Banks specified that the $5,000 "apprehension fee" would apply to almost all immigrants aged 14 and older who entered without inspection, irrespective of their entry point, duration of stay, or ongoing immigration processes.
This severe economic penalty approach has already significantly impacted the Cuban community: one Cuban national received a notice of a $690,000 fine, while another faces a penalty exceeding $530,000 for failing to leave the U.S. following a deportation order.
Understanding Fines for Illegal Entry
What constitutes "entry without inspection" according to the U.S. government?
The term "entry without inspection" refers to individuals who enter the United States without going through the formal inspection process normally required at ports of entry.
What are the potential consequences of not paying the ICE fine?
Failing to pay the ICE fine on time could result in federal debt, and the government might withdraw the owed amount directly from bank accounts.