In 2024, deportations were higher than pre-pandemic levels

How have deportations changed over the years?  

🔹 Pre-COVID (Oct 2014 and Mar 2020): the US averaged 40,100 monthly repatriations  

🔹 During the COVID-19 pandemic: Expulsions doubled the monthly average to 105,000

🔹 Post-pandemic (after May 2023): Repatriations remained 71% higher than pre-COVID levels

What are the different types of deportation?

The Department of Homeland Security defines deportation as the removal of a noncitizen from the US.

A broader term, “repatriation,” includes:

🔸 Removals: Ordered by an immigration judge, with reentry potentially leading to legal consequences. 

🔸 Returns: Often voluntary and not based on a removal order. 

🔸 Expulsions: Conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic without standard legal procedures, citing public health risks.