89 Belarusians placed in US immigration detention centers since the beginning of the year
Most arrests were in July — 23.
Immigration detention center in Newark (New Jersey). Photo: Lokman Vural Elibol / Anadolu via Getty Images
Since the beginning of 2026 until August, at least 89 Belarusians have been arrested and placed in US immigration detention centers, according to the volunteer human rights initiative ByAction.
The majority of those detained had no violations and were in the standard immigration process.
Only 6 people, or about 7% of the total number of detainees, were categorized as Convicted Criminals. In all six cases, the crimes were non-violent. Three of these six individuals already had a final deportation order at the time of their arrest.
73% of those detained are men, 15% are women. The most arrests were in July — 23, January — 15, and March — 13.
Florida, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey account for 45% of all arrests (it is likely that the largest Belarusian presence is recorded there — NN).
The initiative also knows for certain about 16 people who were released on bail in 2026.
The average bail amount was $11,500, the highest was $40,000, and the lowest was $4,500.
Among the Belarusians detained in 2026, 3 people have already been deported to Belarus, and another three agreed to voluntary departure.
In total, among Belarusians detained in 2025 and 2026, 12 people already have a final deportation order and are currently awaiting its execution.
Currently, about 60 Belarusians are in immigration detention centers.