What option allows a noncitizen to depart the United States on a specified date instead of being formally removed?

• A. Parole in place
• B. Deportation
• C. Voluntary departure
• D. Asylum

Answer: (C)

Voluntary departure is the option that lets a noncitizen leave the United States on a date set by the immigration authorities, instead of receiving a formal removal order. It’s offered as an alternative to deportation during removal proceedings, giving the person time to depart on their own terms. If they leave by the specified date, they avoid a removal on their record and may face fewer long-term immigration barriers. If they don’t depart in time, the case can proceed to formal removal. Parole in place, deportation, and asylum serve different purposes: parole in place is temporary permission to stay for specific reasons, deportation is the formal removal process, and asylum is a protection claim, not a departure option.