WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a sweeping reversal of immigration policy, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued formal self-deportation notices to migrants who entered the country under former President Joe Biden’s CBP One app program. The affected individuals have been ordered to leave the United States “immediately,” according to U.S. media reports on Tuesday.
A DHS spokesperson confirmed to AFP that “formal termination notices” were sent to migrants now classified as “illegal aliens.” However, the agency did not specify the exact criteria used to determine which individuals were selected for removal.
“Formal termination notices have been issued, and affected aliens are urged to voluntarily self-deport using the CBP Home App,” the DHS representative said. “Those who refuse will be found, removed, and permanently barred from reentry.”
The CBP One app, introduced in January 2023 during Biden’s administration, allowed migrants to book appointments at designated southwestern border entry points. It was part of a broader humanitarian parole strategy designed to streamline migration and reduce border chaos.
According to National Public Radio, more than 930,000 migrants could be affected by the new deportation orders.
Upon returning to office earlier this year, President Donald Trump immediately canceled the CBP One app program, closing a key legal channel used by migrants in Mexico to seek entry into the U.S.
Trump, who has made immigration a centerpiece of his political agenda, pledged to deport “millions” of undocumented migrants. His administration has already taken drastic measures, including the revocation of protected legal status for over 532,000 migrants from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
“Canceling these paroles is a promise kept to the American people to secure our borders and protect national security,” said the DHS spokesperson.
The termination notices were reportedly sent via email, citing the department’s legal authority to revoke parole at its discretion under U.S. immigration law.
Critics warn that the mass deportation effort could strain diplomatic relations and deepen humanitarian concerns at the U.S.-Mexico border. Nonetheless, the Trump administration remains firm in its enforcement-first approach, continuing to roll back immigration reforms introduced under Biden.
