The recent expansion of expedited removal under Donald Trump’s executive orders has heightened concerns for immigrants across the U.S. This policy allows immigration officers to deport certain individuals without a court hearing, significantly reducing legal protections for those at risk of removal. With this expansion, more immigrants—including those who have lived in the U.S. for years—can now face fast-track deportation with little opportunity to challenge the process.

For individuals and families at risk, understanding how Trump’s expedited removal policy works and knowing how to challenge expedited removal is critical. In this guide, we explain the changes, who is affected, and what legal steps can be taken to protect your rights and fight removal.

What Is Expedited Removal?

Expedited removal is a fast-track deportation process that allows U.S. immigration officers to deport noncitizens without a hearing before an immigration judge. Unlike standard deportation proceedings, where individuals have the opportunity to present their case in court, expedited removal bypasses the immigration court system entirely.

Originally, this process applied only to noncitizens caught within 100 miles of the U.S. border and within 14 days of entry. However, Trump’s executive order dramatically expands the scope of expedited removal, putting a larger number of immigrants at risk.

way to represent expedited removal

How Expedited Removal Works:

An ICE or CBP officer determines eligibility for expedited removal.
The individual may be detained without the right to a court hearing.
Unless they can claim asylum or prove their lawful presence, they may be deported within days.

Because expedited removal occurs quickly, individuals must act fast to assert their legal rights and challenge deportation.

How Trump’s Executive Order Expands Expedited Removal

Trump’s latest executive order broadens expedited removal eligibility, meaning more people—including those living far from the border—can now be deported without due process. Key changes include:

1. Expanding Eligibility Nationwide

Previously, expedited removal only applied to recent border crossers. Under Trump’s order, this policy now applies anywhere in the U.S., putting thousands of long-term residents at risk.

2. Targeting Immigrants Who Cannot Prove Two Years of U.S. Residence

If an individual cannot provide immediate proof that they have been living in the U.S. for at least two years, they may be subject to expedited removal.

3. Granting ICE Officers More Power

Under this policy, immigration officers now have greater discretion to order deportations without court involvement. This means more people could be removed without legal review or a chance to defend themselves.

4. Reducing Legal Protections

Because expedited removal bypasses the immigration court, individuals have fewer opportunities to seek relief, such as asylum or cancellation of removal.

demonstration against expedited removal

Immediate Impact on Immigrant Communities

The expansion of expedited removal has serious consequences for many immigrants, including:

Increased fear and uncertainty, as even long-term residents may now be vulnerable.
More wrongful deportations, as people may be removed despite having a legal right to stay.
Greater difficulty accessing legal help, as many individuals are deported before they can speak with an attorney.

Who Is at Risk Under This Policy?

This policy affects a wide range of immigrants, including:

Undocumented individuals who cannot prove they have lived in the U.S. for more than two years.
Asylum seekers who do not immediately declare fear of persecution.
Individuals with pending immigration applications who lack physical proof of their status.
Long-term residents who do not have proper documentation on hand at the time of questioning.

Even those with legal pathways to stay can be at risk if they fail to provide proof of residency when confronted by immigration officers.

How to Challenge Expedited Removal

If you or a loved one is facing expedited removal, taking the right legal steps immediately can make a critical difference. Here’s how to challenge fast-track deportation and protect your rights:

1. Assert Your Right to Seek Asylum

If you fear persecution in your home country, you have the right to request a credible fear interview before deportation. This interview allows asylum seekers to present their case and avoid immediate removal.

2. Gather Proof of U.S. Residency

Since lack of evidence can trigger expedited removal, always carry proof of your time in the U.S., such as:

Utility bills, lease agreements, or pay stubs
Medical or school records
Bank statements or tax returns

Having these documents ready can help prove your eligibility to stay if you are stopped by immigration officers.

3. Request Legal Representation Immediately

You have the right to consult an immigration attorney before signing any documents. Do not sign any deportation orders without first speaking to a lawyer.

4. Demand a Credible Fear Interview

If you fear returning to your home country due to violence, persecution, or danger, you must inform immigration officers that you want to request asylum. This triggers a credible fear interview, which can delay deportation and provide a chance to seek asylum.

5. Challenge Expedited Removal in Federal Court

In certain cases, expedited removal orders can be challenged through habeas corpus petitions in federal court, but this must be done quickly and with the help of an experienced lawyer.

How Law Group International Can Help Individuals Facing Expedited Removal

At Law Group International, we understand the urgency and high stakes of expedited removal cases. Our team is dedicated to fighting wrongful deportations and protecting the rights of immigrants under this harsh new policy.

Our Legal Services Include:

Legal Representation Against Expedited Removal: We advocate for individuals who are at risk of fast-track deportation and fight to delay or overturn their removal orders.
Asylum & Credible Fear Interview Assistance: We guide asylum seekers through the process and ensure that credible fear interviews are handled properly to prevent wrongful deportation.
Documentation & Proof of Residency Support: We help immigrants gather and present evidence to establish their eligibility to remain in the U.S.
Federal Court Appeals: If you have been wrongfully placed in expedited removal, our attorneys can file legal challenges to stop your deportation.

Take Action Now: Protect Your Rights

With Trump’s expanded expedited removal policy in effect, acting quickly is essential to protect yourself and your family. Do not wait until it’s too late—seek legal help immediately to challenge expedited removal and explore your options.

At Law Group International, we are committed to defending immigrants against unlawful deportations.