President Donald Trump’s administration is offering immigrants in the U.S. illegally $1,000 and travel assistance if they voluntarily return to their home countries, as part of a renewed push to fulfill his campaign promise of mass deportations.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the initiative Monday, encouraging migrants to use a newly rebranded mobile app, CBP Home, to arrange their departure. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said those who participate will be deprioritized for arrest and removal. “Self-deportation is the best, safest, and most cost-effective way to leave the United States,” she said.
The program has already funded return trips for some migrants, including a recent flight from Chicago to Honduras. DHS estimates that arresting, detaining, and deporting an individual costs $17,121, compared to the minimal cost of a plane ticket and stipend.
The Trump administration is also broadcasting ads and posting on social media to promote voluntary returns while deterring illegal immigration. Critics, however, warn of potential legal pitfalls for migrants. Aaron Reichlin-Melnick of the American Immigration Council cautioned that leaving the U.S. while in removal proceedings could jeopardize asylum claims or other legal protections.
Some immigration advocates question the legality and funding source for these payouts, while supporters argue the strategy is a practical alternative given the sheer number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
Mark Krikorian of the Center for Immigration Studies endorsed the concept but stressed the importance of enforcement: “Execution matters. How do you ensure they don’t return?”
Though similar voluntary return programs have been tried globally, most have shown limited success. Whether this U.S. version will achieve Trump’s immigration goals remains to be seen as the administration intensifies efforts to reduce the undocumented population.
