Trump Administration Repurposes CBP App to Encourage Self-Deportations

Exclusive: The Trump administration has unveiled the CBP Home app, a revamped version of the controversial CBP One app. This new tool is designed to encourage and facilitate the self-deportation of individuals in the U.S. illegally, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Initially rolled out during the Biden administration, the CBP One app had enabled migrants to schedule appointments at U.S. ports of entry for parole into the country. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized this approach, claiming it allowed over one million individuals to enter the U.S. illegally. The new CBP Home app will now replace its predecessor, effectively shutting down its original purpose.

"The Biden Administration exploited the CBP One App to allow more than 1 million aliens to illegally enter the United States. With the launch of the CBP Home App, we are restoring integrity to our immigration system," Noem stated.

The app introduces a "Submit Intent to Depart" feature, allowing users to document their plans to leave the country and verify their departure. This function specifically targets individuals who were paroled into the U.S. under previous policies. Noem explained that the app offers a chance for undocumented migrants to voluntarily exit and maintain the possibility of returning legally in the future. However, she warned that failure to comply could result in deportation and a permanent ban on reentry.

The Trump administration has been swift in rolling back Biden-era immigration policies. On his first day in office, Trump terminated the use of the CBP One app for parole appointments. His administration has also paused applications for controversial parole programs and allowed ICE to revoke parole statuses for some migrants. Additionally, Temporary Protected Status extensions for certain nationalities have been canceled.

Meanwhile, the administration is highlighting a notable decline in migrant crossings at the southern border. Trump, addressing a joint session of Congress last week, attributed the drop to his firm stance on illegal immigration. "They heard my words, and they chose not to come. Much easier that way," he remarked.

While the CBP Home app’s debut is another step in reshaping U.S. immigration policy, critics may question its practicality and humane implications. For now, the administration seems resolute in its effort to tighten the nation's borders and reassert control over immigration systems.