By Ambassador Bryan David Hunt
To make America safe, strong, and prosperous, President Trump is ensuringthat U.S. immigration laws are followed. If you try to enter the United States illegally, lie to get a visa, work without legal permission, or stay in the United States after your visa or visa waiver period expires, you will face serious penalties. These include jail time, deportation, and a permanent ban on obtaining a U.S. visa in the future.
If you have family or friends who are in the United States illegally, now is the time to tell them to come home.
Trying to Enter or Remain Illegally Will Get You Caught
Some people believe they can sneak into the United States and avoid beingcaught. This is not true. The Trump Administration has strengthened border security and greatly increased the number of illegal aliens being arrested and deported.
In February 2025, illegal border crossings dropped 94% compared to February 2024, while arrests of illegal border crossers inside the United States increased by 627%. If you try to cross a U.S. border or remain in the United States illegally, you will be caught, detained, and sent back. You may also be banned from ever returning or face fines and criminal charges.
U.S. Visa Fraud Has Serious Consequences
The U.S. visa process is the most secure in the world. Yet, some peopleunwisely still try to cheat the system by using fake documents, lying on applications, or staying after their visa expires. These are examples of visa fraud, and it is a serious crime. If you break the law in this way, you will bepunished, and you may never be allowed to enter the United States again.
The Journey to the U.S. Border is Dangerous
For those considering making the dangerous journey to illegally enter the United States, understand that your safety – and even your life – are at risk. Criminal groups, cartels, and human traffickers target illegal migrants, subjecting them to violence, extortion, and assault. Many who attempt the journey never make it to their destination. The United States is working with other countries to stop and return people trying to enter illegally before they even reach the U.S. border. By securing our borders, we are not only protecting American citizens but also preventing the suffering caused by illegal immigration.
President Trump is Holding Everyone Accountable
The United States government is also taking action against those who help others enter the country illegally. This includes smugglers, human traffickers and even foreign government officials who allow illegal immigration to continue.
Recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy for foreign officials – including immigration, customs, and port authority staff – who fail to help stop illegal immigration. This builds on similar existing restrictions for those in the transportation and tourism industries. Those who threaten U.S. security by facilitating illegal immigration are not welcome in our country.
The Choice is Clear – Follow the Law
The risks of trying to illegally immigrate to the United States far outweigh any potential benefits. You could lose your life, become a victim of criminals, or end up with a record that damages your future and your family’s future.
Illegal entry not only breaks U.S. laws, it is also puts your safety and well-being in jeopardy. The penalties are serious: jail time, separation from your family, and permanent bans from re-entering the United States.
If you know someone who is in the United States illegally, the best thing you can do for them is encourage them to leave now before they are caught.
For everyone, the message is simple: Make the right choice, follow the law, and do not risk your safety, your family, or your future.
For media inquiries please contact U.S. Embassy Media Coordinator Alhassan Jalloh,JallohA@state.gov
