Changing Immigration Enforcement—Third Country Removals and "Project Homecoming"

Immigration enforcement tactics continue to evolve in 2025, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implementing controversial new strategies that impact thousands of immigrants across the United States. Two particularly significant developments—third-country removals and the new "Project Homecoming" initiative—deserve careful attention from potentially affected individuals and their legal representatives.

At Rocesq LLC, understanding these enforcement mechanisms is crucial for immigrants navigating an increasingly complex system. This post examines these enforcement approaches, their implications, and what individuals should know to protect their rights.

Third Country Removals: A Concerning Trend

What Are Third-Country Removals?

Third-country removals occur when U.S. immigration authorities deport individuals not to their countries of origin but to third countries where they may have minimal or no connections. This practice has become increasingly common recently, raising significant legal and humanitarian concerns.

Recent Developments

In recent cases, DHS has removed individuals to countries such as South Sudan without providing adequate notice to those affected or their legal representatives. This practice has faced legal challenges, with some individuals now reportedly detained at a U.S. military base in Djibouti while courts review the legality of their removal.

These removals often occur with minimal warning, leaving individuals without the opportunity to:

• Gather necessary documents

• Contact family members

• Consult with legal counsel

• Prepare for life in an unfamiliar country

Legal Concerns

These removals potentially violate:

• Due process rights

• Previous court orders governing removal procedures

• International non-refoulement obligations

• Basic humanitarian protections

What You Should Know

If you or someone you know has a final order of removal:

• Stay in regular contact with your immigration attorney

• Ensure your attorney has current contact information for you and emergency contacts

• Keep copies of all immigration documents in a secure, accessible location

• Understand which countries might be considered for third-country removal in your case

• Be aware that removal could happen with minimal notice

Project Homecoming: Understanding the Self-Deportation Initiative

In May 2025, the U.S. government launched "Project Homecoming," a new initiative aimed at encouraging "self-deportation" of undocumented immigrants. This program combines financial incentives with enhanced enforcement measures.

Financial Incentives and Logistical Support

Project Homecoming offers:

• $1,000 "Exit Bonus": A financial incentive provided upon successful departure from the United States

• Free Government-Funded Flights: Available to individuals who voluntarily depart

• Concierge Travel Services: Assistance with booking flights and navigating the departure process, even for those lacking valid travel documents

• Use of the CBP Home App: Digital tools to facilitate the voluntary departure process

Enhanced Enforcement Measures

Alongside these incentives, the program includes significant enforcement components:

• 20,000 Additional Personnel: The DHS is authorized to increase staffing for enforcement and removal operations

• Deputizing Other Officials: The program allows for contracting with state and local law enforcement officers, former federal officers, and personnel from other federal agencies

• National Awareness Campaign: A communications effort to publicize both the incentives and the consequences of non-compliance

Implementation Timeline

The enforcement campaign is scheduled to commence within 60 days of the order's signing, which means enforcement will begin on July 8, 2025.

Behind the Marketing: What Project Homecoming Doesn't Tell You

While Project Homecoming is presented as a voluntary program with attractive benefits, there are several critical aspects that the government's messaging doesn't emphasize:

Reentry Bars Still Apply

Perhaps most importantly, individuals who depart under Project Homecoming are still subject to the same reentry bars that apply to all departures after periods of unlawful presence:

• 3-Year Bar: For those who accumulated more than 180 days but less than 1 year of unlawful presence

• 10-Year Bar: For those with 1 year or more of unlawful presence

• Permanent Bar: For certain individuals with multiple entries or previous removals

These bars mean that participants may be unable to legally return to the United States for years—or even permanently—regardless of family ties or other connections.

Additional Considerations

Other important factors not prominently featured in Project Homecoming materials include:

• Record of Departure: Participation creates an official record of departure that can complicate future immigration applications

• No Guarantee of Safety: There are no guarantees about conditions upon return to countries of origin

• Abandonment of Pending Applications: Departure may constitute abandonment of pending immigration applications or benefits

• Family Separation: For mixed-status families, participation may lead to long-term family separation

Legal and Practical Implications

Both third country removals and Project Homecoming raise significant legal concerns:

Due Process Considerations

• Removals without adequate notice may violate due process rights

• Limited access to legal counsel during expedited processes

• Potential issues with interpreters and translation during the process

Humanitarian Concerns

• Family separation with little time for preparation

• Return to countries with unstable conditions

• Third country removals to locations where individuals have no connections or support

Long-Term Immigration Consequences

• Creation of removal records that impact future immigration options

• Triggering of reentry bars

• Potential criminal consequences for subsequent reentry

Protecting Your Rights: What to Do If You're Affected

If these enforcement tactics potentially impact you, consider the following steps:

For Those Concerned About Third Country Removals:

1. Consult with an Immigration Attorney: Understand your specific situation and options

2. Document Everything: Keep records of all interactions with immigration officials

3. Know Your Rights: You have the right to speak with an attorney if detained

4. Prepare Emergency Plans: Ensure family members know what to do if you are detained

5. Carry Important Contact Information: Have your attorney's phone number memorized or readily available

   
   

For Those Considering Project Homecoming:

1. Get Legal Advice First: Understand all consequences before making a decision

2. Evaluate Your Specific Situation: Consider pending applications, family ties, and conditions in your home country

3. Understand the Reentry Bars: Know how long you might be barred from returning

4. Get Everything in Writing: If you decide to participate, document all promises made

5. Consider Alternatives: Discuss other potential options with your attorney

Looking Forward: The Changing Landscape of Immigration Enforcement

These enforcement tactics represent significant shifts in how immigration laws are being implemented. As legal professionals, we at Rocesq LLC closely monitor these developments and their impacts on immigrant communities.

The combination of financial incentives with enhanced enforcement measures signals a multifaceted approach to immigration enforcement that requires heightened awareness from potentially affected individuals.

How Rocesq LLC Can Help

Our experienced immigration attorneys can:

• Evaluate your specific situation and potential vulnerabilities

• Explain your rights if approached about voluntary departure or facing removal

• Develop strategies to protect you and your family

• Represent you in immigration proceedings

• Challenge unlawful removal tactics

Conclusion

As immigration enforcement tactics continue to evolve, staying informed and seeking qualified legal counsel becomes increasingly important. Both third-country removals and Project Homecoming represent significant developments that require careful navigation.

If you have questions about how these enforcement approaches might affect you or your loved ones, please contact our team at Rocesq LLC for a confidential consultation. Our attorneys are committed to helping you understand your options and protect your rights during these uncertain times.

Remember: Knowledge is protection. Understanding these enforcement mechanisms is the first step toward navigating them safely and making informed decisions about your immigration journey.