On Monday, Michael W. Banks, the chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, issued a stern warning on social media, urging migrants to voluntarily leave the country. "This is your last chance to self-deport on your own terms. CBP Home is now available," he stated, referring to the revamped application designed to facilitate land-based self-deportations. "Failure to comply will result in expulsion by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and you will be barred from returning," he warned.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated a campaign to rigorously enforce immigration laws and promote the voluntary self-deportation of undocumented immigrants. Since February, Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, has emphasized that the Trump administration will utilize all legal tools to encourage those without legal status to depart the U.S. voluntarily.
Strict Enforcement of Immigration Laws
In an official statement, the DHS asserted its commitment to fully implement the Immigration and Nationality Act. This legislation outlines penalties for foreign nationals who fail to voluntarily leave the United States, do not register with federal authorities, or neglect to provide fingerprints or notify immigration authorities of address changes. Non-compliance could lead to hefty fines (up to $998 per day of overstay), imprisonment, or both.
According to the DHS, while these laws have been overlooked for decades, the current administration is determined to enforce them strictly. Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokesperson, reiterated the government's stance: "President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those illegally residing in our country: Leave now. Departing voluntarily may allow you the chance to return and partake in our freedoms and the American dream."
Introducing CBP Home: A Tool for Voluntary Departure
On March 10, the U.S. government unveiled CBP Home, a new digital application developed by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This tool aims to provide a structured process for undocumented immigrants to notify authorities of their intention to voluntarily exit the United States, thereby avoiding harsher consequences.
The CBP statement highlighted the "Intent to Depart" feature, which allows migrants without legal status, or those whose stay permits have been revoked, to inform officials of their plan to leave the country. This initiative aligns with Executive Order 14159, focusing on enhancing border security and ensuring adherence to immigration laws.
Beyond the "Intent to Depart" functionality, CBP Home offers additional services, such as the advance application for the I-94 form for temporary entry, monitoring wait times at border crossings, and scheduling inspections for perishable goods.
FAQs on U.S. Self-Deportation Policy
What is the purpose of the CBP Home application?
The CBP Home application is designed to facilitate the voluntary self-deportation of undocumented immigrants by providing a structured process for notifying U.S. authorities of their intent to leave.
What penalties do undocumented immigrants face for not self-deporting?
Undocumented immigrants who do not self-deport may face significant fines up to $998 per day of overstay, imprisonment, or both, as outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act.
How does the "Intent to Depart" feature work?
The "Intent to Depart" feature in the CBP Home app allows undocumented immigrants or those with revoked stay permits to notify authorities of their decision to leave the U.S. voluntarily.