Visa Lawyer Blog

Articles Posted in Voluntary Departure

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prison-370112_1280Introducing sweeping changes, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has expanded its role by gaining law enforcement powers previously limited to agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Under a new final rule published today, USCIS will now recruit 1,811-classified special agents—fully empowered officers with authority—to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals violating U.S. immigration laws.

What’s Changed?

  • Law Enforcement Authority: The newly designated USCIS special agents are authorized to carry firearms, execute search and arrest warrants, make arrests, and use force—including in pursuit and potentially lethal situations—under standard federal law enforcement protocols.
  • Operational Autonomy: Previously, USCIS investigations—especially those involving criminal violations—were referred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
  • Enforcement Agency: Now, USCIS itself can manage law enforcement investigations from start to finish, including investigating civil and criminal violations within the jurisdiction of USCIS and ordering expedited removal when warranted.

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airport-8081875_1280On Friday May 9, 2025, President Trump signed executive order “Establishing Project Homecoming,”a new White House initiative aimed at encouraging the voluntary departure of undocumented immigrants from the United States.

This new policy offers financial incentives and logistical support to those who facilitate self-deportation, with the stated goal of reducing the fiscal and social burdens associated with deportation to prioritize funding for Americans in need.

Key Provisions of Project Homecoming:

  • Free Government-Funded Flights:Undocumented immigrants are offered complimentary flights to any country willing to accept them, excluding the United States.This service is accessible through the government’s new “CBP Home” mobile application and at participating airport
  • $1,000 Exit Bonus: Individuals who voluntarily and permanently depart the U.S. under this program are allegedly eligible to receive a $1,000 “exit bonus” upon successful relocation.
  • Concierge Travel Assistance: A government-provided concierge service is available at airports to assist individuals, even those lacking valid travel documents from their home countries, in booking flights and navigating the voluntary departure process.

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