The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a strong warning to nearly one million asylum seekers who used the CBP One app to enter the United States. They are being urged to “self-deport” immediately. This announcement follows reports that migrants were informed they must return to their home countries.
A DHS spokesperson stated that canceling the paroles is part of a commitment to strengthen border security and protect national interests. The CBP One app, launched in January 2023, allowed over 936,500 individuals claiming persecution in their home countries to enter the U.S. and live and work here for two years while awaiting immigration proceedings.
Formal notices have been sent to those affected, urging them to voluntarily leave the country using the CBP Home App. The spokesperson warned that those who do not comply will face removal and a permanent ban from reentry.
The app was designed to manage the high number of illegal border crossings, which have reached record levels. Critics, particularly from the Republican Party, argue that the Biden administration misused its parole authority to admit millions of migrants, exacerbating the ongoing border crisis. A spokesperson from the Trump administration claimed that the current administration’s actions have fueled this crisis.
While the precise number of those impacted remains unclear—some may have already received asylum or have other legal protections—DHS clarified that migrants from specific programs for Afghan and Ukrainian citizens are not affected by this latest directive.
In addition to this, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem is revoking parole for 532,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans who traveled to the U.S. with financial sponsors, effective April 24. The administration is also attempting to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for about 600,000 Venezuelans and 500,000 Haitians, though this effort is currently stalled due to legal challenges.
As the situation unfolds, the U.S. continues to grapple with its immigration policies and the implications for those seeking refuge.