Understanding Self-Deportation Policy 2025

Self-deportation, otherwise known as voluntary departure, is being heavily promoted by the Trump administration in 2025. Self-deportation is an option for undocumented immigrants to leave the U.S. and return to their home country.

The premise behind the self-deportation process is that individuals who opt for it will avoid being forcibly deported by immigration authorities.

The current administration has introduced incentives to the voluntary departure process, referring to the new initiative as “Project Homecoming.” Project Homecoming offers individuals who self-deport logistical travel assistance and a $1,000 stipend upon their return to their country of origin.

While on its surface, self-deportation might sound like a good option, there are serious risks. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C., believes it is vital for anyone considering this process to seek self-deportation legal advice before making such a consequential decision.

Risks of Self-Deportation

The offer of travel assistance and $1,000 could be appealing to some, but it also carries a risk of long-term negative consequences.

• Self-deportation can lead to long-term bans. Whether leaving the country voluntarily or not, if you’ve been in the U.S. illegally for 180 days or more, it can result in a three- or 10-year ban from returning.
• No guarantees of future reentry. There are no promises or protections for those who self-deport to return.
• No guarantee the proclamation’s promises will be kept. It is essential to note that the travel assistance and $1,000 stipend listed in the policy are not actually law but rather a “proclamation” by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This means there is a chance that these incentives may not be fulfilled.
• Family separation. Aside from legal risks, leaving the U.S. could result in long-term or permanent separation from family and loved ones. The emotional toll of this separation could be considerable.
• Upending your safety and security. Depending on the state of your home country, your lifestyle and well-being could be severely impacted.

Seeking self-deportation legal advice from one of our experienced voluntary departure immigration attorneys is vital when making such a consequential decision. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging process.

What to Consider Before Self-Deporting

Before deciding whether or not to depart the country voluntarily, there are several questions to ask yourself. Talking through these questions with an immigration lawyer is crucial.

• Have all legal possibilities been explored? You may still be eligible for asylum, cancellation of removal, or other forms of relief.
• Am I feeling pressured to self-deport? Do not decide to self-deport quickly and out of fear. Know your rights before signing or agreeing to anything.
• Do I understand there are potential long-term consequences? There could be impacts on your ability to return, reunite with your family and loved ones, or adjust your immigration status.
• Do I need legal assistance? In complex immigration legal procedures, such as voluntary deportation, we highly recommend seeking legal help to ensure you are aware of all available options.

The Immigration Self-Deportation Process

Voluntary departure is a process in which a non-citizen willingly leaves the United States without undergoing formal deportation or removal proceedings. Under U.S. immigration law, individuals can request self-deportation before or during removal proceedings.

Voluntary departure is not a new concept, but the Trump self-deportation immigration process claims to be a more streamlined and beneficial system for users. The Trump administration has created a new avenue for self-deportation in 2025 with the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) Home App.

There are 10 steps to utilizing the new system.

1. Download the CBP Home App.
2. Sign in using the site Login.gov.
3. Select the departing traveler.
4. Select intent to depart.
5. Submit a photo.
6. Complete the biographical information.
7. Provide information about financial and passport needs.
8. Submit to CBP home.
9. Receive confirmation.
10. If assistance is needed, wait to be contacted about travel support. If assistance is not needed, you can depart on your own.

On the surface, the new system appears straightforward, but it has potential consequences. These consequences include the risk of long-term negative impacts on your immigration status, uncertainty about future reentry, and the possibility that the promises made in the proclamation may not be fulfilled.

How Scott D. Pollock & Associates Can Help

The self-deportation policy of 2025 is a new option for non-citizens to consider, but it is essential to weigh its pros and cons. The knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys at Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C., are ready to guide you through the decision-making process.

Our team is committed to helping you make informed decisions about your immigration status. We will thoroughly review your case, advise you on your rights, and help you decide if self-deportation is the best choice for you. We will evaluate your legal options and assess if there are alternatives that allow you to remain in the U.S.

Contact us today to start this critical conversation.