Checking the current news will likely result in you seeing stories about people who are opting to self-deport instead of staying in the country. This is known as voluntary departure, and it’s sometimes a way to preserve your ability to enter the United States legally if you’re here without proper documentation.
Self-deporting is exactly what it sounds like. You make the decision to leave the country instead of there being an order of deportation placed on your immigration record. If you have an order to deport, you likely won’t be able to come into the country for 10 years; however, that time is shorter with a voluntary departure.
Self-deporting comes with disadvantages
The downside to self-deporting is that you’re responsible for travel costs, and you must leave within the designated time. There are several conditions that must be met in order to voluntarily depart. For example, you can’t have been convicted of an aggravated felony and be approved to leave the country in this manner.
There are sometimes other options that are available, so it’s critical to determine if any are suitable for your case. These include asking for an adjustment of status or cancellation of removal. Those options might be difficult, but they’re viable for some individuals.
It may be beneficial for you to work with someone who’s familiar with these matters. They can help you to understand the options and determine how each will affect you now and in the future, which is particularly important if you want to return to this country eventually.