The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reminded undocumented immigrants this Monday that self-deportation is preferable and listed some advantages they might gain from it.
“If you are illegally in the United States, self-deport now so you can: leave on your own terms, choose your destination, say goodbye to your friends and family, possibly return later, legally, as an immigrant or visitor,” reads a post on X from ICE.
The institution also emphasized that those who self-deport will be able to settle their affairs before leaving the country and will not run the risk of spending months detained in a cell.
“If you are illegally in the U.S., you can leave at any time. You do not have to wait for ICE agents to find, arrest, detain, and deport you. You can plan and organize your affairs,” they stated in a statement.
ICE believes that self-deportation offers a number of advantages for illegal migrants.
"You might want to inform your employer, friends, and family that you're leaving. You could also help find support for your loved ones, pack the things you'd like to take with you, or plan your accommodation for the next stage of your journey."
They also explained that if the immigrant is already in proceedings before an immigration judge, leaving may result in a barrier to re-entering the U.S. for a specific period of time.
However, ICE can dismiss the deportation process if the immigrant proves that “they voluntarily left the U.S., thereby avoiding receiving a final deportation order (and the negative consequences that come with it).”
They finally warn that "if ICE agents arrest you, you may not have the opportunity to do any of this. Immediately after your arrest, you will go to a detention center for a hearing before an immigration judge or, if you already have a final deportation order, ICE will remove you."
A total of 65,682 undocumented immigrants were deported during the first 100 days of Donald Trump's presidency, according to official figures.
According to ICE, out of more than 66,000 arrests made, 75% were immigrants with criminal records, including 2,288 alleged gang members from organizations such as Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and Barrio 18, as well as 1,329 individuals accused or convicted of sexual offenses and 498 for murder.
ICE itself has acknowledged that this escalation has been made possible by the reactivation of the 287(g) program, which allows local police to collaborate in immigration operations. Since January 20, 444 new cooperation agreements have been signed across the country.
In March, authorities launched the CBP Home application, a digital tool that allows immigrants in irregular situations to notify their intention to voluntarily leave the country.
The application, developed by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office, aims to provide an orderly and defined process for those wishing to leave U.S. territory without facing more severe consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Self-Deportation of Undocumented Immigrants in the U.S.
What benefits does ICE offer to those who choose to self-deport?
ICE proposes that undocumented immigrants who self-deport can leave on their own terms, choose their destination, say goodbye to friends and family, and possibly return later legally as immigrants or visitors. This process also allows them to get their personal affairs in order before leaving the country.
What is the CBP Home app and how is it related to self-deportation?
The CBP Home app is a digital tool launched by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office for undocumented immigrants to notify their intention to voluntarily leave the country. This app aims to provide an organized and defined process for those who wish to leave U.S. territory without facing harsher consequences. Additionally, it allows for the registration of the "Intention to Depart" and helps avoid a more complicated deportation process.
What are the consequences of not self-deporting according to current U.S. policies?
The consequences of not self-deporting may include arrest, prolonged detention, daily fines of up to $998, and possible confiscation of property. Moreover, immigrants who do not self-deport could face a ban on reentering the United States. These measures are part of a stricter campaign under the Trump administration to manage illegal immigration.
What additional measures has the Trump administration taken to encourage self-deportation?
The Trump administration has launched a multimillion-dollar campaign that includes flight restrictions for undocumented immigrants and the promotion of the CBP Home app. Additionally, a plan has been announced that would offer a financial stipend and a plane ticket to immigrants who choose to self-deport, with the aim of facilitating their departure and, potentially, their legal return in the future.
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