The Trump administration has relaunched its controversial immigration app, CBP One, under a new name, CBP Home. This move follows an overhaul aimed at tightening border controls and reinstating order to the U.S. immigration system. The app is central to the administration's "Stay Out and Leave Now" campaign, which emphasizes self-deportation and legal reentry in the future.
CBP One was initially introduced during Trump's first term to streamline various immigration services, including asylum claim processing at the southern border. The app also facilitated appointments for the inspection of perishable goods and allowed international travelers to check the status of their I-94 admissions applications. However, the Trump administration rebranded it as CBP Home, aiming to curb what they described as misuse by the Biden administration.
“The Biden Administration exploited the CBP One app to allow more than 1 million aliens to illegally enter the United States,” – Noem
The overhaul has left thousands of asylum seekers stranded at the border, as they are now required to register for appointments through the revamped app or face expulsion. Critics have likened this strategy to Trump's earlier attempts to restrict asylum claims.
“With the launching of the CBP Home app, we are restoring integrity to our immigration system.” – Noem
Despite the relaunch, concerns linger. Asylum seekers who cross the border irregularly could face a five-year ban on reentry and potential criminal prosecution under current policies. The app’s transformation is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to revoke several legal pathways for migrants, including temporary protected status and humanitarian parole.
Accusations have flown between administrations over the handling of CBP One. The Trump administration alleged that Mexican cartels had exploited the app to facilitate human trafficking, although no evidence was provided. In contrast, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem emphasized the new app's role in promoting lawful immigration pathways.
“The CBP Home app gives aliens the option to leave now and self-deport, so they may still have the opportunity to return legally in the future and live the American dream,” – Noem
The changes have not been without consequence for those at the border. Giovanni Martino, an asylum seeker affected by the overhaul, expressed his dismay at the situation.
“It was a huge blow. After all we’ve been through, all the waiting, all the hope, it’s incredibly disheartening,” – Giovanni Martino
As part of its implementation, the CBP Home app will redirect users from the existing CBP One platform to ensure a seamless transition. This action aims to mitigate confusion among users accustomed to the previous system.
