US steps up action against visa fraud and illegal immigration

The US government has launched a new interagency initiative to target visa fraud and prevent illegal immigration, the US Embassy in India said in a post on X on May 15. The embassy issued a warning that individuals found guilty of visa fraud will face permanent bans from entering the United States.

As part of the broader crackdown, the US also plans to impose visa restrictions on foreign governments that are found to be facilitating illegal migration to the country.

This initiative comes as the Trump administration intensifies its border security policies. The White House stated that the US is now witnessing “the most secure border in modern American history,” citing a 95% drop in illegal border crossings and a 99% reduction in the number of “gotaways”—individuals who cross the border without being apprehended, as per a report by The Times of India.

Separately, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a voluntary departure program for undocumented migrants. Under this program, individuals who choose to leave the US on their own will receive $1,000 and full coverage of travel costs. Those who use the “CBP Home” mobile app to declare their intention to return home will be deprioritised for detention and formal removal.

According to a report by the Times of India, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said that voluntary return is both the safest and most cost-effective option. DHS has already arranged flights, including a recent one from Chicago to Honduras, and more are scheduled.

President Donald Trump stated that self-deportation allows migrants to keep the possibility of legal return in the future. However, immigration experts caution that choosing to leave while in removal proceedings can affect ongoing asylum cases and future legal status in the US.

The current self-deportation initiative uses a digital platform that was originally designed during the Biden administration for booking legal entry appointments. It has since been repurposed to support voluntary returns. While the administration hopes this move will cut enforcement costs, past efforts have shown limited success in ensuring that returnees remain in their home countries.

(With inputs from TOI)