Due to the increasingly strict immigration landscape, more individuals chose voluntary departure over the course of the past year. The change not only reflects increased government scrutiny towards immigration procedures, but the increasing difficulties faced by individuals navigating the immigration system. Voluntary departure rates are only slated to rise soon.

Statistical Trends

Voluntary Departure rates increased dramatically since January 2025. According to CBS, an average of twenty eight percent of all immigration removal cases concluded in voluntary departure. This is the highest yearly average since 1983. The percentage grew each month, eventually reaching thirty eight percent of all cases by December. In total, around two million undocumented individuals departed the U.S. voluntarily over the past twelve months. These numbers don’t account for individuals being removed without a hearing before an immigration judge.

Voluntary Removal Guidelines

The government gives undocumented individuals a way of departing the U.S. voluntarily. Undocumented individuals can announce and record their departure on the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home App. Voluntary departure alleviates pressure on immigration authorities and saves thirteen thousand dollars on average per individual.

Additionally, individuals that depart voluntarily from the U.S. can legally return to the country legally. Those removed by immigration authorities are banned from re-entering. The government urged undocumented individuals to voluntarily depart before being detained by immigration authorities.

As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.