US Government Incentivizes Self-Deportation with $1,000 and Travel Assistance for Migrants
The Trump administration announced a new initiative on Monday, offering undocumented migrants $1,000 and covering their travel costs if they choose to “self-deport” from the United States.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that self-deportation is a safer, more cost-effective alternative to being arrested and deported by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). “If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest, and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest,” Noem stated.
Under this program, migrants can apply for financial assistance through the CBP Home App. Once their return to their home country is verified via the app, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will issue the $1,000 stipend.
The DHS highlighted that offering this option is not only a more dignified approach for undocumented migrants, but it is also projected to reduce deportation costs by approximately 70%. The current average cost of arrest, detention, and removal of an undocumented migrant is $17,121.
The program has already seen some participation, with a migrant from Honduras utilizing the offer to return home. The initiative is part of President Trump’s ongoing efforts to address illegal immigration, as he previously pledged to deport millions of undocumented migrants during his campaign.
