SINGAPORE – Over 100 Singaporeans have been marked for deportation by the United States authorities since November 2024, according to recent immigration data. This figure places them among more than 1.4 million foreign nationals issued deportation orders, who remain on the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) non-detained docket.
This classification means that while these individuals are not held by ICE, they may be under the supervision of other agencies due to legal infractions.
Who Is on the Deportation List?
The ICE list, which consists of around seven million individuals, includes foreign nationals in the US for various reasons. Some are asylum seekers awaiting their immigration proceedings, while others are permanent residents convicted of crimes. Others are part of the Alternatives to Detention programme, which allows monitored movement but requires check-ins with authorities or the use of ankle monitors.
Of these seven million, only about 20% have received “final orders of removal.” This means that they must leave the US within 90 days of the order being issued. However, some individuals can avoid immediate deportation if granted “relief from removal.” This relief is typically available to asylum seekers or individuals facing persecution or torture in their home countries.
Challenges in Deportation Enforcement
Despite the existing deportation orders, some individuals remain in the US due to non-cooperation from their home countries. ICE has classified 14 nations, including Cuba, Russia, China, and India, as uncooperative in deportation matters. Additionally, another 11 countries, including Jamaica, Iraq, Cambodia, and Vietnam, have been listed as at risk of non-compliance.
Singaporeans Deported in FY2024
While over 100 Singaporeans are on the deportation list, only three were deported in fiscal year 2024, which spanned from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. This brings the total number of Singaporeans deported to 22 between fiscal years 2019 and 2024, according to ICE’s annual report published on December 19, 2024.
US Immigration Policy and Its Impact
US President Donald Trump has reinforced his administration’s strict immigration policies, fulfilling his campaign promise to increase deportations. Under his leadership, the US has intensified deportation efforts, recently conducting flights to various South American nations. Notably, a recent flight transported deported individuals to India—the farthest location reached by the administration’s military deportation flights.
The tightening immigration landscape in the US continues to affect foreign nationals, including Singaporeans, who may face removal orders despite having resided in the country for extended periods.
Conclusion
With deportation policies becoming increasingly strict, Singaporeans in the US who are at risk of removal should stay informed about their rights and available legal options. As immigration laws evolve, seeking expert legal counsel may be necessary for those affected.
Stay tuned for updates on this issue as more information emerges from US immigration authorities.
