What is CBP Home and how to use its self-deportation section?
We know that navigating the U.S. immigration system can be a road full of uncertainty. If you’ve heard about the CBP Home application and its “self-deportation” feature, it’s natural to feel confused or concerned.
You may be wondering what exactly CBP Home is, how it works and, most importantly, how it could impact you and your family’s life. You are not alone in this. Many people are in a similar situation, looking for clear and reliable answers.
Understanding the Transition: From CBP One to CBP Home
You may have heard of CBP One, an application that initially offered functionalities such as scheduling appointments to apply for asylum at ports of entry.
However, the landscape has changed. The current administration has substantially modified the approach, replacing or evolving CBP One into what we know today as CBP Home.
This new version, while retaining some functions, has oriented its primary use toward self-deportation of individuals who are in the country without legal authorization. This change represents a significant transformation in the immigration enforcement strategy from facilitating certain entry processes to encouraging voluntary departure from the country.
For those who already had CBP One installed, the upgrade to CBP Home may have been automatic, which could lead to encountering this new self-deportation feature without being fully informed of its consequences.
What is CBP Home and What Features Does it Offer?
Its purpose is to serve as a unified portal for various CBP services. While the self-deportation function is the most controversial and the one that generates the most doubts, the application includes other tools:
The Main Feature: “Intent to Depart” or Self- deportation
Officially called “ “Intent to Depart.”( “Submit Intent to Depart” or “Departing Traveler “)”, it allows noncitizens without legal authorization to notify the federal government of their decision to leave the country voluntarily. It is presented as an “orderly and definite” alternative to detention and deportation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The government even offers incentives, such as a financial stipend and travel document assistance in certain cases. However, it is crucial to understand that this “voluntary departure” has profound legal implications. Before considering this option, it is vital to seek the advice of experienced immigration attorneys.
Provisional I-94 Request
Another feature of CBP Home is the ability to apply and pay the cost of the provisional I-94 form up to seven days prior to arrival at a land port of entry.
The I-94 is an entry and exit record, essential for those entering legally as visitors. While useful for travelers with documentation, its inclusion in an app that promotes self-deportation can lead to confusion.
Border Waiting Time Consultation
The application also allows checking estimated waiting times and lane status at land ports of entry. This tool is useful for travelers and carriers.
Other lesser-known Procedures
Additionally, CBP Home may include options to request inspections of agricultural or biological products and for bus operators to submit traveler manifests.
The “Self- Deportation” Process with CBP Home Step by Step
If you are considering the “Intent to Depart” option, it is critical that you first consult with immigration attorneys to understand all the ramifications. That said, here is the general process:
Who Can Use This Feature? Eligibility Requirements
Not all individuals are eligible for the self-deportation program through CBP Home. General criteria include:
- Non-criminal noncitizens who are unlawfully present in the U.S.
- Have had any prior interaction with CBP (at a port of entry or otherwise).
- Individuals whose categorical parole status has expired or is about to expire.
- Be physically present in the U.S. at the time of application.
- Children under the age of legal majority must also register individually.
- Eligibility is not affected if the person is in immigration proceedings, has been previously deported, or has a final order of removal.
Practical Guide to Notifying your ” Intention to Leave”.
- Download and Install the App: CBP Home is available on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android), and from the CBP website.
- Register or Login: You will need to use a Login.gov account.
- Navigate to Section: Once inside, look for the “Departing Traveler” or “Intent to Depart” option.
- Enter Required Information:
- Photograph: Take a clear photo of yourself following the instructions.
- Biographical Information: Full name, date of birth, country of citizenship, country you plan to return to, alien registration number (if applicable), current telephone number.
- Additional Questions: About financial resources for departure and possession of a valid passport.
- Submit and Confirm: Review all the information and click “Submit”. You will receive a confirmation notification.
- Output Verification:
- By Land (car, bus, on foot): After crossing the border, you must open the app, select “Departing Traveler”, then “Verify Departure”. You will need to be at least 3 miles from the U.S. border, authorize location services, take a new photo, and provide personal and travel information.
- By Air or Sea: No additional action is required, but you can report your departure and obtain a digital record.
Legal Implications of Self- Deportation: What You Must Know
Using CBP Home’s “Intent to Depart” function is not a simple notification. It carries significant legal consequences that can permanently affect your immigration future.
Reentry Bars: An Unavoidable Consequence
One of the most serious implications is the activation of reentry bars. These are based on time of unlawful presence in the US:
- Unlawful presence of more than 180 days but less than 1 year: Results in a 3-year reentry bar.
- Unlawful presence of more than 1 year: Results in a 10-year reentry bar.
- Attempting to unlawfully reenter after accumulating more than 1 year of unlawful presence: May result in a permanent ban on admission.
It is crucial to understand that these bars apply regardless of whether you voluntarily depart using CBP Home or whether you are formally deported. The idea that self-deportation guarantees an easier path to a future legal return is, in many cases, misleading.
Does It Really Improve Your Future Immigration Options?
It is suggested that self-deportation may be seen more favorably than deportation by ICE in future applications. However, there is no legal guarantee of this.
Voluntary departure could mean that you abandon possible legal avenues to remain in the U.S., such as an asylum application, adjustment of status for family ties, or special visas for victims of crime. Before making a decision, it is imperative that immigration attorneys analyze your particular case.
Why Do You Need the Support of Immigration Attorneys Before Using CBP Home?
Immigration law is complex and each case is unique. What may seem like a simple “solution” such as self-deportation through CBP Home can close important doors for your future. A team of immigration attorneys like Angel Law Firm, PL can:
- Evaluate your specific situation: Analyze your immigration history, your length of presence in the U.S. and any relevant factors.
- Explain all legal consequences: Detail how reentry bars would affect you and the impact on future options.
- Determine if there are other legal alternatives: Explore whether you are eligible for asylum, visas, adjustment of status, or other forms of protection.
- Protect your rights: Ensure that you understand your rights and do not make decisions based on incomplete or misleading information.
At Angel Law Firm, PL, we offer you direct attention without intermediaries. With over 50 years of combined experience in immigration and personal injury law, and bilingual service, we are here to provide you with real support throughout the entire process.
Don’t let fear or misinformation dictate your future. Let us provide you with the guidance and support you need. Contact us today for your initial consultation and receive direct attention from immigration attorneys who care about you.
