Voluntary Departure allows a noncitizen to leave the United States on their own terms, without being subject to a formal removal order. This difference matters greatly because a removal order triggers long-term bars, harms future visa eligibility, and remains permanently on a person's immigration record.
There are two types of Voluntary Departure:
Pre-conclusion voluntary departure — usually requested early in removal proceedings
Post-conclusion voluntary departure — granted at the end of the case if the individual meets stricter requirements