Ask-the-Consul Installment 25-06
In this edition of Ask-the-Consul, we will provide information on the self-deportation process for individuals who wish to voluntarily leave the United States using the CBP Home Mobile App. The app offers a voluntary, incentivized process for illegal aliens to return to their home country or another country that will accept them on their own terms.
What is the CBP Home Mobile App?
The CBP Home Mobile App grants users access to services provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including the Intent to Depart feature. This feature allows illegal aliens to voluntarily notify the U.S. Government of their intent to depart the United States, avoiding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions, detention, and removal.
How can I access the CBP Home App?
The CBP Home mobile application is FREE to use and available to everyone who has access to a mobile device. You can download the app from the Apple App and Google Play stores.
What are the benefits of participating?
Benefits include:
A $1,000 exit bonus upon confirmation of departure;
Travel assistance, including arranging travel for family members,
Forgiveness of any failure to depart fines,
De-prioritization for ICE enforcement actions, detention, and removal.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Currently there is no deadline to apply. However, illegal aliens are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to self-deport as soon as possible, before ICE takes action to deport them involuntarily. By self-deporting through the CBP Home Mobile App, illegal aliens can take control of their situation, access financial and travel assistance, if eligible, and avoid ICE arrest and detention.
What if I don’t use the CBP Home Mobile App to voluntarily self-deport?
If you are unlawfully residing in the United States, ICE will continue to prioritize your removal, which could result in detention and a permanent bar to re-entering the United States.
What information will I need to sign up for the CBP Home Mobile App?
Required information includes:
First name, middle name, last name
Date of birth
Country of citizenship
Email address and phone number
A clear self-photo (selfie)
Can families travel together?
Yes. You can register family members as co-travelers within the CBP Home Mobile App. Each co-traveler, including minors, must be registered to receive the benefits.
Am I eligible if I have been deported before or have a final order of removal?
Yes, these conditions do not preclude eligibility for self-deportation via the CBP Home Mobile App.
How will exit bonuses be issued to participants?
Exit bonuses will be disbursed after landing in the country of arrival. The delivery method will vary based on country-specific guidelines, and no bank account is necessary.
What should I do if I have questions or need assistance?
For questions or further assistance, please reach out to [email protected]. You can also consult with an immigration attorney or legal aid organization.
Detailed information and additional FAQs on the self-deportation process can be found at https://www.dhs.gov/cbphome.
Consular Tip:
We strongly encourage all visa holders to use their visas correctly and to adhere to the terms of their stay. This ensures a positive and lawful experience in the United States and avoids the serious consequences and ineligibilities associated with removal/deportation.
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“Ask the Consul” is a monthly column from the U.S. Embassy answering questions about U.S. immigration law and other Consular topics. Detailed information about visas can be viewed at and Information about American Citizen Services can be found at https://gy.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare their own documents and avoid third-party advice. Consular processes change frequently, and non-U.S. government advisors often provide inadequate or inaccurate information. Please contact our Visa Information Service Center using the contact information at if you have general visa questions.
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