What does "expedited removal" refer to in Border Patrol practices?

"Expedited removal" refers to a fast-tracked process for removing undocumented individuals from the United States, which allows border officials to swiftly address cases of individuals who are apprehended close to the border or in specific situations. This process aims to enhance efficiency in handling immigration enforcement by allowing certain individuals to be removed without lengthy hearings or traditional immigration court proceedings. The criteria for expedited removal typically involve situations where the individual is unable to establish a proper legal status within the U.S. or has recently entered the country.

The focus on efficiency and speed in the removal process distinguishes expedited removal from other practices such as thorough investigations, which would involve a more comprehensive assessment of an individual’s immigration status. Similarly, programs aimed at legalizing foreign workers or new regulations on border security pertain to different aspects of immigration policy and do not specifically relate to the mechanism of swift removals of undocumented individuals.