Four months is the estimated duration for a journey from Vietnam to the U.S. border, according to Susan Burns, U.S. Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City. This route, which may involve crossing the Darién Gap between Colombia and Panama or traveling by boat from San Andrés Island to Nicaragua, is fraught with danger.
President Trump has emphasized adherence to U.S. immigration laws as part of efforts to maintain national safety and prosperity. Violations such as illegal entry, visa fraud, or overstaying visas can result in severe penalties including imprisonment, deportation, and permanent bans on obtaining future U.S. visas.
The recent launch of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app aims to facilitate voluntary departure for those living illegally in the United States. "If people don’t voluntarily self-deport," warns Burns, "American law enforcement will find them and deport them without the possibility to return."
Under the Trump Administration's policies, border security has been strengthened leading to a 94% decrease in illegal crossings as of February 2025 compared to February 2024. Meanwhile, arrests of illegal immigrants within the United States have surged by 627%.
Visa fraud remains a serious offense with significant consequences for those who attempt it through fake documents or other means. Such actions can result in permanent bans from entering the United States.
The journey towards illegal entry into the United States poses substantial risks including violence and exploitation by criminal organizations targeting migrants. Many do not reach their intended destination while others face dire circumstances upon returning home indebted to criminal entities.
Efforts are underway globally to prevent illegal immigration with cooperative measures aiming at intercepting individuals before they reach U.S borders thereby protecting both American citizens and potential migrants from harm.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced new visa restrictions targeting foreign officials who fail to curb illegal immigration practices adding pressure on sectors like transportation and tourism involved in facilitating such activities.
Burns stresses that attempting illegal immigration endangers lives and future opportunities due to possible legal repercussions including jail time or permanent bans from re-entering America: "Make the right choice," she advises, "follow the law."