The United States has introduced a new $5,000 “apprehension fee” for undocumented immigrants aged 14 and above. The charge comes under President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which expands national immigration enforcement.
US Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks confirmed the move on X. He said the rule applies to every undocumented person, regardless of how they entered, where they live, or whether they already face immigration proceedings. Officers collect the fee at the moment of arrest. It does not depend on any court ruling.
The Department of Homeland Security says the policy is based on 8 USC 1815, which requires payment from anyone who enters the country without inspection. Officials may also apply related penalties under 8 USC 2339 and 1324. DHS noted that a $1,000 charge was introduced in September as part of earlier measures.
People who cannot pay the new fee will carry a formal debt to the US government. This debt may block future legal entry or access to immigration benefits.
The rule arrives during a sharp decline in border arrests. DHS reports that November numbers reached their lowest point since the 1960s. To maintain enforcement, agents have expanded operations inside major US cities, including Los Angeles and Chicago.
