In a bizarre twist of digital-age celebrity, several social media influencers who were deported from the United States under the Trump administration have found ingenious ways to continue profiting from their American fanbase. Despite being physically removed from US soil, these banned content creators are reportedly earning substantial incomes through TikTok and other platforms.
The Deportation Paradox
At least three high-profile influencers, including Mexican national Lizbeth Rodriguez and Colombian creator Sebastian Villalobos, have maintained – and in some cases grown – their follower counts after being expelled from America. Rodriguez, who boasts over 15 million TikTok followers, was deported in 2020 but continues to earn an estimated £10,000 per month from brand deals and platform payments.
How They're Doing It
The banned creators have employed several strategies to keep their US-based income streams flowing:
- Content repurposing: Many post identical content across multiple platforms to maximise reach
- Virtual appearances: Some charge for live-streamed "appearances" at US events they can't physically attend
- Merchandise sales: Several have launched product lines promoted to their American followers
- "Banished" branding: A few have turned their deportation status into part of their online persona
The Legal Grey Area
Immigration experts note that while US law prohibits deported individuals from earning money through American employment, the regulations become murky when applied to global digital platforms. "There's no clear precedent for this situation," explained London-based immigration lawyer Sarah Chen. "The money isn't coming directly from US companies, but rather through international platforms with American users."
Platform Responses
When contacted, TikTok representatives stated that their payment systems don't discriminate based on a creator's immigration status, provided they comply with community guidelines. However, some US lawmakers are calling for stricter regulations on digital earnings for deported individuals.
The Future of Digital Immigration
This phenomenon raises profound questions about the nature of borders in an increasingly digital world. As one industry analyst noted: "We're entering an era where physical presence and digital influence can be completely decoupled. This challenges traditional notions of immigration enforcement and economic participation."
