United States Immigration: How to get the $1,000 from DHS?

If you are reading this, you are probably in a situation of uncertainty about your future in this country. Perhaps you have heard rumors or news about a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) program that offers $1,000 and travel assistance to certain immigrants to voluntarily return to their home countries.

We understand that this information may raise many questions. Our goal with this article is to provide you with clear and honest guidance on this U.S. Immigration issue, so that you can make informed decisions.

What does this DHS U.S. Immigration program consist of?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a program formally called “Travel Assistance and Voluntary Self-Deportation Stipend.” Through the CBP Home (formerly CBP One) mobile app, certain undocumented immigrants are offered the ability to receive a $1,000 stipend and assistance in coordinating their travel back to their home country.

The government’s stated goal is twofold: on the one hand, they seek to reduce the costs associated with formal deportation proceedings and, on the other hand, to offer what they call a “dignified and safe” exit option for those in the country without legal authorization. This initiative claims to be an alternative to arrest and deportation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

It is important to understand that this “voluntary self-deportation” is a change in U.S. immigration strategy. The CBP One app, which many knew for its asylum appointment scheduling feature, has been renamed to CBP Home and now includes an “Intent to Depart” feature.

This indicates a new priority for the government: encouraging the departure of certain immigrant groups. According to DHS, this program could generate significant savings, as the average cost of detaining and deporting an individual is considerably high.

Who would be eligible for this assistance (and who would not)?

Not every undocumented immigrant automatically qualifies for this program. Eligibility is subject to specific criteria, and this is where confusion can arise. According to the information available:

• Are potentially eligible:
  • People who are in the U.S. without a current lawful immigration status.
  • Those who do not have a serious criminal record.
  • Individuals who have had a previous encounter with the Border Patrol (CBP), either at a port of entry or somewhere in between.
  • Certain individuals who entered the country under a “parole” status, perhaps using the CBP One application, and whose permit has expired or is about to expire, or has even been revoked.
  • It is a fundamental requirement to be physically present within the United States at the time of application.

• Not eligible:
  • Individuals with criminal records.
  • Although DHS has indicated that people in immigration proceedings or with prior deportations may be eligible, it is crucial to understand the specific implications for these cases. An undocumented immigrant in this situation should seek urgent legal advice before considering this option.

Step-by-Step: How to request assistance through the CBP Home app

If you think you might be eligible and want to explore this option, the process is done primarily through the CBP Home mobile app. Here are the general steps:

1. Download and Install the App: If you already had CBP One, it should automatically upgrade to CBP Home. If not, you can download it for free from the Apple or Google app stores.
2. Register or Login: You will need to register or log in using your Login.gov account. This is a secure access system used by the government.
3. Select the Exit Option: Within the application, search for and select the “Departing Traveler” option.
4. Manifest your Intention: Then choose the “Submit Intent to Depart” function.
5. Provide your information: The application will guide you to:
   • Take a clear photograph of your face.
   • Complete required fields with your biographical information.
   • Provide a current telephone number.
   • Answer questions about whether you have sufficient funds for your departure (although the program offers assistance) and whether you have a valid, unexpired passport.
6. Review and Submit: Carefully verify all information entered before clicking the “Submit” button.
7. Notification: Upon successful submission, you will receive a notification in the application and an email to the address associated with your Login.gov account, with the next steps to follow.

Confirmation of Departure and Receipt of Stipend

The $1,000 stipend is paid after your departure from the country has been confirmed.

• Land travel (car, bus, on foot): You will need to verify your departure through the app once you are at least 3 miles (approx. 5 km) away from the U.S. border. This requires authorizing the use of your mobile device’s location services, submitting a new photo, and providing personal and travel information.
• Air or sea travel: CBP will confirm your departure date directly.

DHS aims to have your departure completed within an estimated period of 21 days from the approval of your application. You will be able to obtain proof of your departure by accessing the “Traveler” section in the app and selecting “View My Travel History” or “View My Departure”.

Crucial Risks and Considerations for an Undocumented Immigrant

While the offer of $1,000 and travel assistance may sound attractive to an undocumented immigrant facing a difficult situation, it is vital that you understand the potential long-term consequences before making a decision. This U.S. immigration program is not as simple as it seems.

• It is not a guarantee of future reentry: DHS suggests that participating “may help preserve the option” of lawful reentry in the future. The word “may” is key here: it offers no certainty or guarantee. Immigration laws are complex, and future eligibility will depend on many factors, including the length of time you remained without lawful status in the U.S.

• Possible re-entry bans (Bans): If an undocumented immigrant has been in the country illegally for more than one year, he or she could face a re-entry ban of up to 10 years. It is critical to understand that this voluntary self-deportation program does not necessarily remove these bans. Voluntary departure under this program may be no different than a formal expulsion in terms of these restrictions.
• Consequences of non-compliance: If you register, promise to self-deport, and ultimately fail to do so, you could face significant fines (between $1,000 and $5,000). In addition, an unfulfilled voluntary departure order can automatically become a formal deportation order, with even more serious consequences for your immigration history.
• Privacy and data: Use of the app, especially for geolocation-based land departure verification, involves sharing personal and location data with the government.
• Upfront costs: Remember that the stipend is paid after departure. This means that, while DHS may help with tickets, you may have to cover other upfront travel costs.
• Access to technology: The process depends on having a smartphone with internet access, which could be a barrier for some.

What happens if an undocumented immigrant does not comply with voluntary departure?

As mentioned, not complying with the exit commitment after being accepted into the program can lead to serious problems.

Financial penalties are a real possibility. Even worse, the voluntary departure agreement can turn into a formal deportation order. This would negatively affect any future attempts to legally enter the United States. Immigration is a field where non-compliance can be a major issue.

Does this voluntary immigration really facilitate legal re-entry to the United States?

This is one of the most important questions and where most care must be taken. The promise that self-deportation “may” facilitate future legal immigration is vague. It does not automatically erase the consequences of having been in the country without permission.

If an undocumented immigrant accrued unlawful presence, the 3- or 10-year re-entry bans may still apply. It is not a guaranteed “clean slate”. Each undocumented immigrant’s case is unique and should be evaluated by a professional.

Are you considering this option? Don’t face your case alone

We understand that each undocumented immigrant’s situation is unique and that the pressure can be overwhelming. The DHS travel assistance program may seem like a way out, but as you have seen, it is full of nuances and potential legal risks that you should know thoroughly.

At Angel Law Firm, PL, we believe in real guidance throughout the process. You will not make blind decisions. We will explain honestly and in your language (we offer bilingual service) the implications of this program for your specific  U.S. immigration case.

Don’t be misled by incomplete information or false promises. Before downloading an application or signing any document, talk to us.