Voluntary Departures

Thousands of immigrants are placed in removal proceedings every year in the United States. Removal proceedings result in deportation unless you can provide a compelling reason for staying. Rather than go through the intensive legal process associated with deportation, the immigrant can choose a voluntary departure.

What Is Voluntary Departure?

A voluntary departure allows the immigrant to remain for an additional time to arrange removal from the U.S. at their own expense. Other benefits of voluntary departure also include being able to leave the U.S. by a certain date and not being barred from returning to the U.S. at another time.

Voluntary departure typically has a deadline of 60 or 120 days, which gives an individual more time to make living arrangements, visit friends and family, and complete any business such as closing bank accounts, selling property, and more.

Voluntary Departure Benefits

Voluntary departure may sound like a choice that one would not typically choose, but it does have its benefits.

Benefits of voluntary departure:

• You want to avoid detention or be released from it
• You wish to leave the U.S. and not be barred from returning at another time in the future
• You may leave and wish to apply for Permanent Residency later
• You are able to depart on your own terms
• You want to avoid any fines and penalties associated with deportation

The decision for a voluntary departure should not be taken lightly. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may request a signature on a document that forfeits your right to return. Make sure that an immigration lawyer experienced in voluntary departures guides you through the process.

Retain an Immigration Attorney Who Cares

Attorney Jorge Martinez is an immigrant that has successfully handled cases for clients in the United States and across the globe. Our English and Spanish language services help to ensure that every client is taken care of. We know how scary and stressful a voluntary departure can be, which is why our Hamilton immigration lawyers are determined to advocate on your behalf through to the resolution of your case.