The Trump administration is urging undocumented individuals in the United States to “self deport” using the CBP Home app, originally launched by the Biden administration as CBP One to manage asylum hearings and curb illegal border crossings. Former President Trump alleges that the app was exploited by the Biden administration to allow around 1 million individuals to enter the U.S. while their asylum cases were pending. In response, Trump officials are now encouraging identified individuals to leave voluntarily through the app, rather than facing detention and forced deportation.
Acting CBP Commissioner Pete Flores emphasized that the app offers a direct avenue for illegal residents to declare their intent to depart, presenting them with the opportunity to avoid harsher consequences. The app, which utilizes facial recognition and GPS tracking, requires users to submit personal information, confirm passport status, and disclose financial ability to leave the U.S. However, the timing for reporting self-deportation plans remains unclear, raising concerns about potential targeting based on app data.
Critics have raised issues about the misuse of the app by migrants who fail to comply with court proceedings after seeking asylum. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem mentioned on FOX News that individuals who self-deport could potentially return legally in the future, whereas those deported for residing unlawfully will be permanently barred. The evolving use of the CBP Home app reflects ongoing tensions and policy shifts in U.S. immigration enforcement strategies.
