The Department of Homeland Security is offering a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to undocumented immigrants who agree to leave the United States voluntarily. The program aims to encourage individuals without legal status to self-deport using a government mobile application.
The initiative utilizes the CBP Home app, a version of the mobile tool repurposed by the Trump Administration. Immigrants can use the app to declare their intention to depart the country and coordinate travel plans.
Department officials stated that voluntary self-deportation is a more cost-effective approach than traditional removal proceedings. The department estimates the average cost of arresting, detaining, and deporting an immigrant is $17,121.
“If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest,” DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement about the plan.
President Donald Trump addressed the plan, stating that voluntary departure with financial and travel assistance could offer migrants a chance to return legally in the future if they meet specific criteria. He contrasted this with forced removals, which would likely bar re-entry permanently.
Those who express intent to self-deport through the app will be less prioritized for detention and removal ahead of their planned departure, according to the department. Participating in the program may also preserve the option for future legal re-entry into the U.S.
The new policy comes as deportation numbers have remained stagnant. President Trump campaigned on promises of increased removals upon taking office, and this program appears designed to accelerate departures through voluntary compliance.
Migrants can confirm their departure using the app's features, including geo-location and facial images, once they are outside the United States. Payment is contingent upon confirmed departure.
While the department highlights potential future re-entry, immigration experts and advocates have expressed caution regarding this possibility. Policy analyst Kathleen Bush-Joseph noted the word "may" is key, indicating re-entry is not guaranteed and could be barred for many years for some individuals who depart.
