The Trump administration has repurposed a previously existing mobile application, initially designed for asylum seekers, into a self-deportation tool for undocumented immigrants.
The application, now rebranded as CBP Home, allows users to voluntarily express their intent to leave the United States by submitting their photo and destination details.
This initiative is part of a broader campaign aimed at encouraging voluntary departures, supported by a $200 million advertising budget.
Originally known as CBP One, the app was initially created to assist individuals seeking asylum in the U.S.
Its transformation into a self-deportation tool reflects a shift in immigration strategy, focusing on managing the undocumented immigrant population more effectively.
The administration hopes that the app’s streamlined process will reduce the burden on immigration enforcement agencies.
Supporters of the initiative argue that the app offers a straightforward, humane option for undocumented individuals who wish to return to their home countries, potentially avoiding harsher immigration penalties.
However, critics, including some advocacy groups, raise concerns that the app may pressure individuals into leaving without fully understanding their legal rights or options.
They also caution that the initiative should not be viewed as a substitute for broader immigration reform, which would provide more comprehensive solutions for undocumented migrants.
The CBP Home app guides users through a series of steps to declare their intent to leave, making the process accessible and user-friendly through mobile devices.
Users upload their photographs and provide information about their intended destination, facilitating an organized and voluntary departure.