Starting May 7th, individuals without valid IDs will no longer be permitted to fly, as stated by Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security. Notably, self-promoting individuals might be exempt from this new identification requirement.
The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) initiated the enforcement of these identity regulations at airports nationwide on Wednesday. This follows the passage of the Actual Identity Act nearly two decades ago after the 9/11 attacks.
Noem shared this information in a social media post from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In March, reports indicated that the US Customs and Border Patrol was reinstating a Biden-era app aimed at self-denial. This app, called CBP Home, reportedly enrolled nearly a million undocumented individuals during President Joe Biden’s administration.
Last month, DHS instructed immigrants who had received parole during the Biden era via the CBP One app to promptly exit the United States.
DHS officials remarked, “Ending these paroles demonstrates our commitment to securing the borders and ensuring national safety.” They communicated to immigrant families in Honduras who entered the U.S. in late 2024, saying it was time to leave.
As per CBP, the revamped CBP-Home app now includes a “Departure Intention” feature, which replaces the previous voluntary process aimed at those unlawfully present in the U.S.
During Biden’s presidency, the TSA had established a specialized screening line for undocumented individuals, allowing them to travel without photo IDs.
Recently, the Trump administration proposed compensation of up to $1,000, along with complimentary flights, for those who voluntarily used the CBP Home app to report themselves. DHS stated that this initiative could cut deportation expenses by approximately 70%.
A DHS official commented:
Individuals who register as voluntary self-claimers using the CBP Home App may qualify for financial support for their departure. If needed, the government will assist in booking travel and acquiring necessary documentation. Those seeking assistance are encouraged to provide accurate contact details and respond promptly to communications.
Officials noted that the initiative is already yielding results, with reports of flights from Chicago to Honduras organized through the CBP Home app. They described self-deportation as “a dignified method of exiting the United States,” helping to prevent encounters with U.S. immigration and customs enforcement.
