The Trump administration has unveiled a new immigration initiative, making headlines with its plan to offer a $1,000 incentive and travel assistance to undocumented immigrants who choose to self-deport. This approach aims to reduce government costs and reshape current immigration enforcement strategies. In this article, we dive into how the program works, its implications for migrants, and what critics and supporters are saying about this bold move.
On May 5th, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced an innovative program to encourage undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the United States. Through the CBP Home App, migrants can signal their intent to depart. Those who complete the process receive a $1,000 stipend after their return is confirmed.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “Self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest.” The federal agency estimates that one typical deportation costs taxpayers over $17,000. By comparison, this self-deportation program could lower costs by up to 70%.¹
Participants must use the CBP Home App, providing documents, biographical data, and a facial image for verification. DHS requires migrants to be at least three miles outside the United States to confirm their departure and receive their stipend. The agency also promises that self-deporting individuals will be deprioritized for detention, making the journey home less risky.¹
For more details on the application process and DHS guidelines, check out USA TODAY’s in-depth coverage here.
Since its rollout, at least 5,000 immigrants have used the CBP Home App to announce their voluntary departure. App downloads have soared, supported by a $200 million advertising campaign launched by the Trump administration. The campaign features bilingual ads targeting immigrants in the U.S. and Mexico, explaining the steps and potential benefits of the program.¹
Advocates and policy experts have voiced concerns about the long-term impact. While DHS suggests self-deportation might help preserve a future path to legal re-entry, experts warn that actual opportunities for migrants to return to the U.S. legally are often limited.¹ Heidi Altman of the National Immigration Law Center noted that “coercing people into leaving their homes and their loved ones carries political, moral, and economic costs.”
The Trump administration’s strategy reflects its push to fulfill key campaign promises on immigration, while adapting its tactics to legal and budgetary constraints. The program is expected to cut enforcement costs and lower detention numbers. However, questions remain about its ethical, political, and social implications.
The $1,000 self-deportation incentive from the Trump administration marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. As the program unfolds, both its effectiveness and its broader impact will be closely watched. For further reading and continued updates, visit NBC News and USA TODAY.