More People Choose to Leave U.S. Instead of Waiting in Detention

Many people who are in U.S. immigration detention are now choosing to leave the country on their own. This is happening more than ever before. People feel it is hard to win their case or get out of detention, so they decide to go home sooner.
By Newsroom | Immigration, United States |

A notable increase in the number of detained individuals choosing to leave the country voluntarily has been observed, with voluntary departures hitting a record high. This trend appears linked to a perceived decrease in the likelihood of release from detention or success in immigration court. For those in detention, the extended wait times and limited contact with the outside world contribute to emotional strain, leading some to opt for immediate departure over prolonged uncertainty.

CBS News: As Pathways to Freedom Narrow, More Detainees Are Voluntarily Leaving the Country - 1

Growing Trend of Voluntary Departures

The number of individuals in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention opting for voluntary departure has reached an unprecedented level. Data suggests this surge is a direct consequence of detainees perceiving diminished chances of favorable outcomes in legal proceedings.

CBS News: As Pathways to Freedom Narrow, More Detainees Are Voluntarily Leaving the Country - 2

  • Many detainees feel they have limited recourse once in the U.S. immigration system.

  • The prospect of extended detention, even while pursuing legal avenues, appears to be a significant factor.

  • Some legal representatives acknowledge that detainees now foresee minimal success in court, prompting a shift towards immediate departure.

Factors Influencing Decision to Leave

Several elements appear to be contributing to the rise in voluntary departures:

CBS News: As Pathways to Freedom Narrow, More Detainees Are Voluntarily Leaving the Country - 3

  • Judicial Denials: Instances of immigration judges denying bond requests for release from detention are frequently cited. One individual reported being detained for six months, experiencing emotional exhaustion and having her request for bond denied, despite having legal counsel.

  • Uncertainty of Legal Process: Even with legal representation and the belief that all necessary steps are being taken to remain in the U.S. lawfully, the legal process can result in outcomes leading to deportation. This perceived lack of control over their legal fate pushes some towards voluntary exit.

  • Fear of Extended Detention: Some individuals express concern that even if their claim for relief is granted, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) might appeal, prolonging their detention. There is also a fear of being sent to a country other than their country of origin.

Government Incentives for Departure

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented measures to encourage voluntary departures, including financial incentives.

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  • A $3,000 stipend has been offered to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave by the end of 2025.

  • This incentive is part of a campaign to accelerate removals and reduce costs associated with detention and deportation.

  • The CBP One app, originally designed for scheduling asylum appointments, has been adapted to facilitate voluntary departures. Individuals can signal their intent to leave via the app.

  • Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that those who do not take advantage of this temporary incentive will be "found," "arrested," and "never return" to the U.S.

Profile of Detained Individuals

Recent data indicates a significant portion of individuals in ICE detention may not have criminal records.

  • As of June 23, 2025, there were 59,000 people in ICE detention.

  • Nearly half of these detainees had no criminal record.

  • This statistic contrasts with public statements from the administration focusing on the deportation of criminals.

Legal and Practical Challenges Post-Departure

While voluntary departure offers a quicker exit, individuals face considerable challenges upon returning to their home countries.

  • Many deportees encounter major difficulties in acclimating to new lives.

  • Some spent weeks in ICE detention before agreeing to sign deportation paperwork.

  • Challenges arise when countries of origin refuse to accept deportees, leading to potential re-routing to other nations.

  • There are concerns that not all deportees are being sent to locations with adequate resources to support their reintegration.

Conclusion and Implications

The record high in voluntary departures signals a potential shift in how individuals navigate the U.S. immigration system. The perception of a waning chance for release or legal success appears to be a primary driver. While government incentives aim to expedite removals, the underlying factors of prolonged detention, emotional strain, and uncertainty in legal outcomes are compelling individuals to choose immediate departure. The demographic data on detainees, particularly the substantial number without criminal records, raises further questions about the broader scope and focus of current immigration enforcement policies. The long-term implications for individuals choosing voluntary departure, and the efficacy of such policies in managing immigration flows, warrant continued examination.

Read More: Venezuelan Man Charged with Assaulting US Officers in Nebraska on June 18

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are more people leaving the U.S. voluntarily from detention?
Many people in detention feel they have a low chance of winning their immigration case or getting out of detention. They choose to leave sooner rather than wait longer.
Q: Is the government offering money to people who leave?
Yes, the government is offering up to $3,000 to some people if they leave the U.S. by the end of 2025. This is to help speed up removals.
Q: Are most people in detention criminals?
No, recent data shows that about half of the people in U.S. immigration detention do not have a criminal record.
Q: What happens when people leave the U.S. voluntarily?
When people return to their home countries, they can have a hard time starting their lives again. Some countries also have trouble accepting people who are sent back.