The Trump administration introduced a new app called “CBP Home” on Monday. It allows immigrants living illegally in the U.S. to “self deport” instead of risking arrest and detention.
The app provides users an option called “intent to depart,” which signals their willingness to leave the country voluntarily.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the app lets immigrants leave now so they might have a chance to return legally someday. She warned, “If they don’t, we will find them, we will deport them, and they will never return.”
Trump has promised to deport large numbers of migrants who entered the U.S. illegally. His deportation figures initially fell behind those during President Biden’s administration in fiscal year 2024, although Biden’s numbers included many recent arrivals.
The Trump administration also plans to introduce a rule on April 11 requiring undocumented immigrants to register with the government or face penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
“CBP Home” replaces the previous “CBP One” app from Biden’s term, which allowed around 1 million migrants waiting in Mexico to book appointments for legal entry at the U.S. border. Republicans criticized Biden’s approach, claiming it encouraged mass migration without proper checks.
Trump discontinued “CBP One” immediately after returning to office, causing uncertainty for migrants who had already scheduled appointments.
