Reports indicate a rising trend of migrants contemplating a return to their home countries due to anticipated changes in US border policies under the upcoming Trump administration. Mexican officials report an increase in requests for "voluntary return," with migrants either self-funding or relying on state resources for their repatriation. Some attribute their decision to the expected termination of a US government app used for asylum claims, a program implemented by the Biden administration that allowed numerous migrants to schedule border crossings and seek asylum. The incoming Trump administration has signaled its intention to discontinue this program and reinstate the "remain in Mexico" policy.

Migrants awaiting appointments in Mexico face uncertainty if their scheduled dates fall after the start of Trump's term. This leaves them with limited options: attempting illegal crossings, remaining in Mexico throughout their asylum process, or returning home. The precarious security situation in Mexico, marked by cartel activity, influences many to opt for returning to their countries of origin. Several migrants expressed their distress and desire to leave Mexico, citing the challenging and dangerous conditions.

Officials from Trump's previous administration emphasized that their policies aimed to deter migrants from undertaking the perilous journey through Mexico, where they frequently encounter cartel-related violence and kidnappings. Tom Homan, Trump's incoming border czar, has stated the new administration's commitment to curbing illegal immigration and targeting cartels. Homan has previously asserted the administration's intention to designate cartels as terrorist organizations and utilize US Special Operations resources to combat them.