United States Reduces 1.6 Million Undocumented Immigrants in 200 Days

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that in her first 200 days in office, approximately 1.6 million undocumented immigrants have left the country. The announcement is part of an official report on recent immigration measures, changes in border control applications, and joint operations carried out by the current administration.

You may also read: “Kristi Noem: Key Achievements in Her First 200 Days as Secretary of Homeland Security”

1. Reduction in the Undocumented Immigrant Population

According to preliminary data, the estimated undocumented immigrant population in the U.S. fell from a peak of 15.8 million in January 2025 to 14.2 million in July 2025, reflecting a significant decline.

Secretary Noem attributed this reduction to new DHS strategies, which include:

• International information campaigns warning about detention and deportation processes.
• Targeted ICE and CBP operations to locate individuals with criminal records.
• Updated immigration control protocols nationwide.

2. Launch of the CBP Home App and Operation “Return Home”

One of the most notable changes has been the replacement of the CBP One app with CBP Home, designed to facilitate voluntary self-deportation.

Key features of CBP Home:

• Allows undocumented immigrants to schedule their return through a simplified process.
• Provides a $1,000 incentive for those who arrange their voluntary departure.
• Offers free flights back to countries of origin.

This initiative is part of Operation Return Home, aimed at reducing pressure on the immigration system and streamlining return processes.

3. Impact on Public Services and Labor Market

According to DHS, the decline in the undocumented population is already having visible effects in several areas:

• Reduced demand in hospitals, schools, and public services.
• Opening of jobs in high-demand sectors.
• Greater availability of state resources for local programs.

The report also highlights notable improvements in border security, with fewer unauthorized crossings and tighter control at strategic points.

4. Reinforcement Actions in Immigration Enforcement

DHS, in coordination with ICE and CBP, has intensified operations targeting individuals with criminal backgrounds.

These actions include:

• Identification of priority cases.
• Collaboration with state and local authorities.
• Strengthened verification and border control protocols.

Conclusion

In less than seven months, Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership has driven substantial changes in U.S. immigration policy. The combination of enforcement operations, return incentives, and technological tools has led to 1.6 million fewer undocumented immigrants in the country, according to data reported by the Department of Homeland Security.

From: https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/08/14/secretary-noem-announces-16-million-illegal-aliens-have-left-us 

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