In a new move, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has rolled out an app that lets illegal immigrants self-deport, a decision rooted in the Trump administration’s agenda to tighten border controls.
The CBP Home App is designed to give migrants, particularly those whose parole has been revoked, a platform to inform officials of their plans to exit the country voluntarily.
According to a recent statement from CBP, this app aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order aimed at fortifying national security and ensuring lawful entry into the U.S.
Acting CBP Commissioner Pete Flores emphasized that the app supports their mission by “strengthening our commitment to enforcing U.S. laws and safeguarding national security.”
Notably, the app offers a straightforward avenue for individuals to declare their departure intent before potential legal repercussions kick in.
In addition to enabling self-deportation, the app includes features that allow users to apply for an I-94 in advance, check border wait times, or submit bus manifest information.
This initiative is also part of a broader campaign, with around $200 million allocated to encourage illegal immigrants to voluntarily leave the U.S. or face deportation.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized the previous administration for allowing over a million undocumented individuals to enter the U.S. and highlighted the new app as a step towards restoring integrity to the immigration system.
She noted that the self-deportation option allows individuals a chance to re-enter the country legally in the future if they choose to depart now.
The app took over from the earlier CBP One app used during the Biden administration, which included appointment scheduling for immigration hearings.
As it stands, questions about the app’s effectiveness arise, especially among immigration lawyers who fear it may limit due process rights.
Gustavo Mora, an immigration attorney, expressed skepticism, arguing that many who possess no prior immigration history should be allowed to present their case in front of a judge.
Some experts believe that the app could be improved, suggesting features like GPS tracking to ensure compliance with the departure process.
The impact of these changes is already visible; recent data indicates that border crossings have dropped significantly during Trump’s second term.
February 2025 saw just over 11,700 encounters, a notable decrease from earlier months.
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