The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a new initiative offering $1,000 and cost-free travel for undocumented immigrants who voluntarily return to their home countries. The program—called “CBP Home”—is being rolled out under the Trump administration as part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing federal immigration enforcement costs.
How the Self-Deportation Offer Works
Participants who qualify for the CBP Home program may receive:
- $1,000 stipend issued after returning home
- A free plane ticket provided by DHS
- Forgiveness of certain unpaid immigration-related fines
- Lower priority for future removal actions
- A potential opportunity to preserve future legal re-entry options
To start the process, individuals must download and register through the CBP Home Mobile App, which collects personal information and travel details.
Temporary Pause on ICE Enforcement
After registering through the app, migrants become temporarily deprioritized for ICE enforcement, giving them time to plan their departure without fear of arrest or detention. DHS says this allows for a more orderly and humane exit process.
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DHS Says the Program Cuts Costs by Up to 70%
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that voluntary self-deportation significantly reduces federal spending. The department currently spends an estimated USD $17,000 to locate, detain, and deport a single individual.
“This program encourages voluntary compliance while saving taxpayers millions,” Noem said.
Who Is Eligible?
The program is available only to specific categories of people living in the U.S. without legal status. Eligibility details are posted on the official DHS website.
Participants must:
- Lack legal immigration status
- Register using the CBP Home App
- Agree to voluntary departure
DHS says participation could help “preserve the option” of lawful re-entry later, though immigration experts have expressed concerns about whether such outcomes can be guaranteed.
Criticism and Public Reaction
Some immigration advocates argue that:
- The program may create unrealistic expectations about future legal entry
- Migrants could feel pressured to participate due to the enforcement pause
- Personal data submitted through the app may raise privacy concerns
Supporters, however, say it offers a humane alternative to detention while reducing government spending.
A Significant Shift in Immigration Strategy
The CBP Home program marks one of the most expansive voluntary departure initiatives in recent U.S. immigration policy. As the political debate over border management continues, the program is expected to draw intense national scrutiny.
