CBP records lowest migrant border crossings in US history

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection on Friday announced the lowest fiscal year migrant border crossings in U.S. history.

CBP said fiscal year 2026 data showed a 95% drop in southwest border apprehensions and the lowest annual encounters in U.S. history. Additionally, data showed the first-ever fiscal year with zero Border Patrol releases.

CBP said September marked the 17th consecutive month with zero releases.

“FY 2026 demonstrated what focused enforcement, strong partnerships, and the commitment of our frontline personnel can achieve,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott in a statement.

Border Patrol recorded 98,708 southwest border apprehensions in fiscal year 2026. Border Patrol said it recorded more than 1.8 million apprehensions per year during former President Joe Biden's term.

Preliminary data showed the total nationwide encounters for fiscal year 2026 were the lowest in the agency's history at 379,243, compared with 2.7 million per year under former President Biden.

With fewer illegal crossings, agencies have seen fewer border-related deaths. CBP said preliminary data showed migrant deaths identified by Border Patrol fell nearly 80% for this fiscal year compared to the previous administration.