First $1,000 ‘self-deport’ flight organized by DHS

DHS Conducts First Charter Flight for Immigrants

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has organized its inaugural charter flight for immigrants, allowing participants to voluntarily “self-swag” by paying a fee of $1,000.

This flight transported 64 individuals from Colombia and Honduras back to their home countries.

DHS clarified, in a press statement, that this operation was not related to immigration enforcement, but rather a voluntary initiative. They referenced US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in their announcement.

Participants were offered benefits akin to those available to undocumented immigrants who opt for self-declaration through the CBP Home App. These benefits included travel assistance, the $1,000 payment, and the potential opportunity to return to the US legally in the future.

Earlier this month, the Trump administration proposed travel assistance and scholarships for individuals who register for self-declaration using the CBP Home App, indicating that immigrants typically have around three weeks to prepare for their departure.

The CBP Home App is a revamped version of the Biden administration’s CBP One app, designed for immigrants to secure spots at entry points for initial asylum claims.

Nonetheless, the American Immigration Bar Association (AILA) cautioned prospective participants, warning that some may encounter challenges in returning to the United States later on.

The AILA stated, “We advise individuals to be cautious, as the information provided can be misleading, suggesting there’s no future impact on their ability to return. It’s crucial to seek sound legal counsel from immigration attorneys or qualified advocates before proceeding.”

The group further emphasized that it is unethical for the government to promote self-reporting as completely safe without fully disclosing the associated legal risks, particularly for those lacking legal representation or awareness of their rights.

DHS shared a photograph on Monday showcasing joyful returnees arriving on the plane, greeted by officials along with stuffed animals for their children, contrasting with other imagery circulated by the agency.