WASHINGTON - The Trump administration has unveiled the CBP Home app, drastically transforming its predecessor, the CBP One app, from one facilitating asylum appointments to one promoting voluntary self-deportation for undocumented immigrants. This change marks the new administration's heightened focus on immigration enforcement and aims to simplify the process for those who wish to leave the United States.
Initially, the CBP One app was introduced during President Biden's term to allow migrants to schedule appointments to seek asylum at U.S. ports of entry. By using the app, thousands managed to secure appointments, hoping for legal entry. But on January 20, 2025, on his first day back in office, President Trump halted the use of CBP One, canceling all pending asylum appointments and leading to uncertainty for many awaiting their claims.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the newly launched CBP Home app now functions to allow undocumented immigrants to submit their “Intent to Depart” securely, notifying the U.S. government of their decision to leave. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the importance of this option, stating, "The CBP Home app gives aliens the option to leave now and self-deport, so they may still have the opportunity to return legally in the future and live the American dream. If they don't, we will find them, we will deport them, and they will never return." This statement reflects the administration's stern stance on illegal immigration.
The app’s features are extensive. Besides the self-deportation functionality, it continues to serve users by allowing them to register travel documents, check border wait times, and apply for I-94 entry and exit cards. Notably, the interface is aimed at expediency for those self-deporting, asking pertinent questions such as whether they possess sufficient funds for departure and whether they have valid passports from their home countries.
After his administration scrapped CBP One, Trump and his appointees claimed the previous app was exploited, alleging it enabled over one million undocumented immigrants to enter the country unlawfully during its operation. Appearing before reporters, Secretary Noem stated, “The Biden administration exploited the CBP One app to allow more than 1 million aliens to illegally enter the United States.” This claim has been refuted by immigrant rights groups, who contend its usage was legitimate for asylum seekers and necessary to reduce unlawful crossings.
Under the re-envisioned framework, undocumented migrants are encouraged to utilize the CBP Home app as part of the administration's larger $200 million advertising campaign titled “Stay Out and Leave Now.” This push has stirred controversy among advocates and legal experts, who criticize its potential for misinformation and fear-mongering among immigrant communities.
Notably, the timing of this transition has raised eyebrows, particularly after Trump’s historical push for mass deportations during his first term. Critics assert the new app aims to create pressure on immigrants by instilling fear of legal repercussions for those remaining within the U.S. without authorization. Laura Rivera, senior staff attorney at Just Futures Law, cautioned against the administration's promises of simplicity, stating, “Immigrant community members should be wary of any promises made by those encouraging them to ‘self-deport’.”
Funding and logistical hurdles remain significant barriers to the success of the app's implementation. Experts have voiced concerns about the comprehensive demographic data the original CBP One app collected and how this could lead to potential tracking and profiling of undocumented populations. Rivera added, “The rebranding of the app is also a chilling example of how easily tools like CBP One can be weaponized to surveil and punish.”
The announcement of the CBP Home app, coupled with recent moves to pause temporary protected status for various groups and the cancellation of humanitarian parole applications, signify Trump's decisive reversion to hardline policies. The Administration has taken swift action to dismantle routes through which undocumented migrants once found temporary refuge, reflecting Trump's campaign message assuring voters of his intent to sharply reduce illegal entry.
Political analysts believe the new app could lead to greater fear among undocumented communities, as its implementation aligns closely with recent legislative proposals aimed at loosening restrictions for ICE operations nationwide. Critics also note how this approach could hinder the chances of many refugees and asylum seekers who could otherwise integrate legally. Others argue it may embolden smugglers and human traffickers who take advantage of vulnerable positions.
By shifting the CBP One app, the Trump administration hopes to signal its commitment to enforcing immigration laws more firmly and reducing unauthorized immigration levels. The prospect of optional self-deportation may appeal to some, yet critics warn against the consequences of forcing vulnerable populations to navigate complex legal waters without adequate support.
While it remains to be seen how many will utilize this updated application and take advantage of its features, the narrative created by the Trump administration has provoked considerable discourse about immigration policies and humanitarian obligations. The long-term impacts on both undocumented immigrants and the official immigration system are yet to fully materialize, with significant scrutiny anticipated from civil rights activists and community organizers alike.