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Since the arrival of Donald Trump at the White House for his second term and the swearing-in of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security, the United States has experienced an unprecedented decline in its immigrant population, particularly among non-citizens and undocumented migrants.
“In less than 200 days, 1.6 million illegal immigrants have left the United States. This means safer streets, savings for taxpayers, less pressure on schools and hospitals, and better job opportunities for Americans,” Noem wrote on her official X account.
In addition, the Secretary of Homeland Security thanked President Trump for what she described as a key achievement of his new administration.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) backed up their words with a blunt statement: “The data shows that 1.6 million illegal immigrants left our country in the last 200 days since Secretary Noem took office and President Trump returned to the presidency. Promises made, promises kept!”.
The statement is based on a recent analysis of the Current Population Survey (CPS), conducted by the Center for Immigration Studies, which revealed that the total population of foreign-born individuals outside the U.S. decreased by 2.2 million between January and July of 2025.
The report details that this is the largest decline recorded in a six-month period since data has been systematically collected since 1994.
The decrease of 1.6 million illegal immigrants represents a reduction of 10% of this population, which is now estimated at 14.2 million.
Most of the departures involve non-U.S. citizens from Latin America who entered the country after 1980, a group that traditionally includes a high percentage of undocumented immigrants.
Some analysts warn that Trump's tightening of immigration policies could be leading to a decreased willingness among migrants to participate in official surveys. This could inflate the departure figures, although preliminary data indicates a strong correlation between the new border control measures and this abrupt reduction.
The report highlights that employment among those born in the U.S. increased by 2.5 million during the same period, while employment among immigrants fell by 1 million, something that the president himself celebrated, claiming they were "incredible numbers."
The impact of Trump's immigration measures has been interpreted by conservative sectors as a validation of the argument that the departure of immigrants creates more job opportunities for citizens, but it is notably affecting certain sectors such as agriculture and tourism services.
Meanwhile, in contrast to the rising rhetoric against illegal immigration in the United States, an increasing number of Cuban Americans and Latinos living in Miami are setting their sights on Spain as a migration destination.
Visas for digital nomads and tax benefits like the Beckham Law have made the European country an appealing option for those seeking a better quality of life and greater economic stability.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reduction of Immigrants in the United States under the Trump Administration
How many illegal immigrants have left the United States since Trump took office for his second term?
Since Trump took office for his second term, 1.6 million illegal immigrants have left the United States. This figure has been highlighted by Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, as a significant achievement of the current administration, supported by data from the Department of Homeland Security.
What measures has the Trump administration implemented to reduce illegal immigration?
The Trump administration has tightened immigration policies, including a military deployment at the southern border, the elimination of several types of parole, and the reactivation of fast-track deportation agreements. They have also launched campaigns to encourage self-deportation and have significantly reduced illegal crossings.
How has the reduction of immigrants impacted employment in the United States?
According to the report, employment among those born in the U.S. increased by 2.5 million during the same period that the immigrant population decreased. Conservative sectors interpret this as a validation of the argument that the exit of immigrants creates more opportunities for U.S. citizens.
Is there a self-deportation program in the United States?
Yes, there is a program called "Proyecto Vuelta a Casa", which encourages undocumented immigrants to voluntarily self-deport. Through this program, benefits such as a safe and orderly exit from the country are offered, as well as a financial incentive for those who choose to return to their home countries on their own.
What has been the international community's response to Trump's immigration policies?
Trump's immigration policies have generated mixed reactions. While conservative sectors in the United States applaud them as necessary measures to curb illegal immigration, pro-immigrant rights organizations and some foreign governments criticize them for increasing the persecution and criminalization of vulnerable communities.
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