In a warning to foreigners living in the United States illegally, the US Embassy in India has highlighted a “historic opportunity” for those who are willing to leave the country voluntarily. The CBP Home App, a self-deportation application that provides financial assistance and travel support to individuals who want to leave the United States, is being promoted by the embassy.
Incentives for Self-Deportation
The US government is offering some incentives to encourage voluntary departure:
- $1,000 Stipend: Eligible individuals will receive a $1,000 stipend upon confirmation of their return through the CBP Home App
- Financial and Travel Document Assistance: The US government will assist with booking tickets and obtaining necessary travel documentation
- Timely Departure Arrangement: Departures are facilitated within 21 days of approval
- Extended Period to Depart: Self-funded travelers can enjoy an extended period to depart
- Improved Future Immigration Options: Voluntary self-departure may improve future immigration options
- Deprioritized for Detention and Removal: Eligible individuals will be deprioritized for detention and removal by ICE
Who Qualifies for the Incentives?
Two categories of individuals are eligible for the incentives:
– Non-Criminal Aliens: Those who have had an encounter with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) either at a port of entry or between ports of entry
– Categorical Parolees: Individuals whose legal presence in the United States has expired or will soon expire
Warning to Foreign Nationals
The US Embassy in India has warned foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa that they risk:
– Arrest and Heavy Fines: Remaining in the US beyond the authorized period of stay can result in arrest and heavy fines
– Incarceration: Overstaying a visa can also lead to incarceration
– Deportation and Permanent Ban: Individuals may be deported and face a permanent ban on future travel to the United States
Using the CBP Home App
One important tool for self-deportation is the CBP Home App, which allows users to register for voluntary departure and obtain financial aid. The app is a component of the US government’s initiatives to promote voluntary departures and lower the nation’s unauthorized immigration population.
The US government hopes to lower the risks of forcible deportation and encourage a safer and more economical method of people leaving the country by offering incentives for self-deportation.
