Illegal Border Crossings Drop to Historic Lows in Trump Administration's First Full Month

February saw fewer than 8,500 apprehensions at the U.S.-Mexico border, marking the lowest monthly total in at least 25 years.

Border Patrol recorded approximately 8,450 illegal crossings in February 2025, a 96% decrease from record highs under the Biden administration in late 2023.
This figure represents the lowest monthly apprehensions since at least the year 2000, with some comparisons suggesting similar levels last occurred in the 1960s.
The Trump administration attributes the decline to strict immigration policies, including immediate deportations, criminal prosecutions, and the cessation of asylum processing at official entry points.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reported single-day apprehensions in February as low as 200, the smallest figure in over 15 years.
Despite the success at the border, Interior enforcement efforts are facing challenges, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities operating at 117% capacity.