Voluntarily leave the US: embassy appeals to Kazakhstanis
The diplomatic mission published an appeal to Kazakh nationals on its official website and social media pages.
“Please note that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a new program offering foreign nationals residing in the country in violation of immigration laws the opportunity to voluntarily leave the United States,” the statement said.
Under the program, those who choose to return home voluntarily will have their return flight paid for and will receive a one-time financial aid of $1,000 after returning. Applications must be submitted via the CBP Home mobile app.
“Voluntary departure is the safest, most orderly, and most cost-effective way to avoid arrest and other serious consequences,” the statement quoted U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
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The embassy urged citizens who, for various reasons, remain in the U.S. without legal immigration status to carefully consider participating in the program. This could be an important step toward resolving their current situation legally and preserving their future right to enter the U.S., the diplomatic mission emphasized.
Since Donald Trump assumed the U.S. presidency, the country’s immigration policy has significantly tightened, particularly against migrants. In the early weeks of his new term, several programs that previously allowed foreigners to enter the U.S. legally or seek asylum were canceled. Thousands of people — including citizens of Kazakhstan — were affected.
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In mid-April, the Kazakh Embassy in Washington also encouraged citizens facing deportation orders to take advantage of voluntary return in order to avoid fines and other penalties.