The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reiterated this Monday through its official account on X the invitation to undocumented migrants to take part in the voluntary self-deportation program “Project Going Home.”
The initiative, promoted together with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), presents a “simplified and incentivized” alternative for leaving the United States without facing detention or forced removal processes.
Incentives for self-deportation
According to USCIS, the aim of the program is to facilitate a voluntary, safe, and orderly exit from the country, offering a range of benefits designed to encourage migrants to leave the United States on their own.
Among the most notable "advantages" highlighted by USCIS on their website are:
Free airplane ticket: “The United States government will purchase a one-way ticket out” to the country of origin or to another location where legal status is held.
-Departure bonus of 1,000 dollars: “This departure bonus will be provided when it is confirmed through the CBP Home application that the undocumented foreign national has left the United States.”
-Waiver of fines: “Civil fines will be waived for not having left the United States after a removal order or voluntary departure order.”
-Family trip: Migrants can leave the country accompanied by their children, “regardless of these children's citizenship status.”
-Personal planning: The opportunity is provided to "leave in a timely manner so that you can finish your job, school, and personal matters."
USCIS emphasizes: "Leave voluntarily with financial assistance or face immigration control and strict penalties."
Self-deportation process through CBP Home
The channel enabled to start the process is the CBP Home mobile application, developed by DHS.
The process involves the following steps:
-Initial registration: The migrant downloads the app, provides their personal information and a photo, and submits the application.
-Personalized coordination: A representative will contact the applicant “at the phone number provided to reserve their one-way ticket.”
-Additional review (if applicable): Some cases will receive an email with a unique link and QR code to complete the G-325R Form, Biographical Information.
-USCIS Online Account: To complete the form, it will be necessary to have a USCIS account. “Only the holder of the USCIS online account can submit Form G-325R.”
-Biometric services (optional): If required, an appointment will be notified at a local Application Support Center (ASC), and this notification will exclusively appear in the applicant's online account.
The program emphasizes that “providing biometric services is a mandatory step” in the event that they are requested.
Warnings and consequences
U.S. authorities warn that illegal presence in the country can have serious consequences: “removal, prosecution, incarceration, wage garnishment, and confiscation of property,” including homes and vehicles.
For this reason, they emphasize that self-deportation could "improve their future immigration options."
Complete details, forms, and frequently asked questions are available on the official DHS website: dhs.gov/cbphome.
In recent months, a growing number of migrants, some of whom are of Cuban origin, have chosen self-deportation.
Recently, a Cuban who returned to the island claimed to be regretful about having self-deported because she has not received the promised $1,000.
Frequently Asked Questions about the United States Voluntary Self-Deportation Program
What is the "Proyecto Vuelta a Casa" program and what are its benefits?
The "Return Home Project" is an initiative of the government of the United States that offers undocumented migrants the option to voluntarily self-deport, thereby avoiding detention or forced removal processes. Benefits include a free plane ticket to the country of origin, a departure bonus of $1,000, and the cancellation of fines for not having previously left the country.
How does the CBP Home application work for the self-deportation process?
The CBP Home application is the main tool for managing voluntary self-deportation. Migrants must download it, register their personal information, and request their departure. A representative will get in touch to coordinate the flight, and if necessary, additional biometric services will be required. This app is designed to facilitate an orderly and rapid return to the country of origin.
What consequences do undocumented migrants face if they do not participate in the self-deportation program?
Migrants who do not take advantage of the self-deportation program may face serious consequences such as removal, prosecution, incarceration, and asset confiscation. In addition, they will be subject to fines of up to 998 dollars per day and could be permanently barred from legally reentering the United States.
When and how is the promised $1,000 for self-deportation received?
The payment of 1,000 dollars is made once the migrant has confirmed their arrival in their country of origin through the CBP Home application. This incentive is part of the effort to facilitate a voluntary and orderly exit from the United States.
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