The Trump administration has launched a new self-deportation initiative offering immigrants living in the U.S. illegally a free plane ticket and a $1,000 cash incentive to voluntarily return to their home countries.
Eligible participants can register through the CBP Home smartphone app — previously used under Biden to allow legal entry — and will receive the stipend after the U.S. confirms their departure. One migrant has already flown back to Honduras using the program, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Those who enroll will be deprioritized for arrest and detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as long as they show they are actively preparing to leave, DHS officials said.
The administration framed the program as a more “dignified way” to exit the U.S., avoiding the risk of detention or forced removal. At the same time, it helps reduce the burden on federal resources. According to DHS, detaining and deporting a migrant costs an average of $17,121, while voluntary departure with incentives is significantly cheaper.
DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin noted that “thousands” have already self-deported under the program.
While the administration claims some migrants could later return legally, the path to reentry is often complex and costly. Moreover, those who’ve been in the U.S. unlawfully for over a year may face a 10-year ban on reentry.
