The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it will immediately begin assessing a $5,000 “Apprehension Fee” for certain immigration violations. The fee is required under Section 100017 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

On Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica reminded citizens via social media that illegal entry into the United States carries serious consequences. The embassy warned:

“The person may be deported or imprisoned. Anyone 14 years of age or older who crosses illegally from now on must pay a new $5,000 fine for inadmissible entry. This fine is final, non-negotiable, and without the right to appeal. Failure to pay it may result in additional sanctions.”

Under the new policy, DHS will assess the Apprehension Fee for any inadmissible alien apprehended between ports of entry in the United States.

  

The fee applies to individuals 14 years or older who entered the U.S. illegally without inspection or admission and are considered inadmissible. DHS specifies that the fee covers:

• Individuals apprehended between ports of entry: Any inadmissible alien caught crossing the border illegally may be charged. Inadmissibility may result from various factors, including unauthorized entry without inspection or parole.

• Aliens ordered removed in absentia: Individuals who failed to appear at a scheduled immigration court hearing, were ordered removed in absentia, and are later arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), may also be required to pay the fee.

Authorities say the policy is intended to reinforce border enforcement and that the fee is applied per apprehension event.

For full legal details, the regulation is published on the U.S. Government Regulations website under the “Inadmissible alien apprehension fee” section.

In August, the embassy welcomed Jennifer Savage as its new Chargé d’Affaires, following the departure of Ambassador Dr. Cynthia A. Telles earlier this year.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has nominated Melinda Hildebrand, a Houston-based businesswoman and philanthropist, to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has not yet announced a hearing date for her confirmation.

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What additional measures should the U.S. take to reduce illegal immigration? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com