Trump Unveils Voluntary Deportation Program for Undocumented Migrants
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has introduced a new immigration plan urging undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the country, with the possibility of returning legally in the future.
Speaking during a televised cabinet session, Trump called the initiative “a major self-deportation operation,” emphasizing that it would help individuals leave the U.S. “in a respectful manner” and eventually re-enter lawfully.
“We’re going to support them from the start,” Trump said.
This announcement comes after the Biden-era CBP One app—originally designed to manage lawful border entry—was phased out. In its place, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched CBP Home, a new platform aimed at assisting migrants who choose to depart on their own.
The DHS is actively informing individuals of their immediate departure requirement and is coordinating with officials in Mexico, Colombia, and El Salvador to provide returnees with food and shelter.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that thousands have already used the voluntary system. “Our goal is to give these individuals a chance to go home, so they might be able to return legally in the future,” she noted.
As Trump pushes this new approach, he remains firm on strict immigration policies, framing the campaign as a way to eliminate criminal elements from within the undocumented population. Still, he acknowledged that certain industries, such as agriculture and hospitality, depend on migrant labor.
“We have to support our farmers and hotel operators,” Trump said, hinting at potential temporary work permits for specific sectors.
Immigration continues to be a key focus in Trump’s 2025 agenda, with recent actions including the reactivation of the Alien Registration Act and an expedited deportation process for non-citizens.
