Index/Topics/DHS Removals and Returns

DHS Removals and Returns

The distinction between removals and returns in the context of U.S. immigration policy and the Department of Homeland Security's reporting practices.

Fact-Checks

5 results
Jan 24, 2026
Most Viewed

How do DHS and ICE define and report 'removals' versus 'returns' in deportation statistics?

and distinguish ""—compulsory departures based on a formal order of removal—from "returns"—confirmed departures not pursuant to such an order, like voluntary returns or withdrawals—and report them bot...

Jan 31, 2026
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How does DHS define and count removals, returns, voluntary departures, and self-deportations?

distinguishes , s, and informal “self‑deportation” both legally and statistically: a removal is a government‑ordered, compulsory expulsion while returns are movements that are not based on an order of...

Jan 14, 2026
Most Viewed

How do DHS removals differ from CBP returns and why does it matter for deportation counts?

DHS “removals” are formal orders to deport an alien and carry legal and administrative consequences, whereas CBP “returns” (including enforcement returns) are departures without a removal order and ge...

Feb 2, 2026

What is the difference between DHS 'removals' and 'returns' and how are they counted?

distinguishes ""—compulsory departures based on a removal order that carry administrative or criminal consequences for future reentry—from "returns," which are confirmed movements out of the that occu...

Jan 11, 2026

How do DHS counting methods for 'returns' and 'removals' differ across the Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden administrations?

DHS distinguishes "removals" — compulsory departures based on an order of removal with administrative consequences — from "returns" — confirmed movements out of the United States not based on an order...