In one of the most striking moves of his second term, President Donald Trump unveiled a federal program offering $1,000 to undocumented immigrants who choose to self-deport from the United States. This initiative, dubbed "incentivized self-deportation," leverages the government’s CBP Home app as a crucial tool for those wishing to participate in the program.
Presented as a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional deportation methods, the program is already underway, providing a one-time payment once the migrant has left the country. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the funds will be transferred after the migrant's arrival in their home country is confirmed through the CBP Home app.
A "Dignified" Exit with Added Benefits
The initiative aims to offer undocumented migrants a "dignified exit," allowing them to plan their return without facing detention by immigration authorities. The DHS reports that using CBP Home can cut deportation costs by up to 70%, which currently average around $17,121 per person.
"We’ll give them some money and a plane ticket. If they're good and we want them back, we'll work to bring them back as quickly as possible, but through legal means," Trump stated during a White House event.
Participants in the program will also be removed from ICE’s priority detention and deportation lists, provided they are actively managing their departure.
Understanding the Process
The process is facilitated through the CBP Home app, available for mobile devices. Once a migrant registers their intention to leave, they can book a flight to their home country and receive the financial stipend upon confirming their arrival via the app.
In addition to the $1,000 payment, the government will cover the airfare, as confirmed by DHS spokespersons. Officially launched in March, the app allows users to complete the process without visiting an immigration office or engaging in legal proceedings.
By early April, at least 2,500 individuals had registered with CBP Home, with a growing number opting for voluntary return, according to official figures.
Consequences for Non-Participants
The Trump administration has made it clear that those who do not opt for this voluntary alternative will face harsher consequences: detention, forced deportation, fines up to $998 per day, and even asset confiscation for not adhering to departure deadlines.
"This is your chance to leave on your own terms," ICE stated in a recent message on social media platform X. "Say goodbye to your loved ones, and if you comply, you might return legally later," they added.
Human Rights Criticism
The measure has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Migrant advocacy organizations have questioned the ambiguity of the "good people" criteria the government uses for future re-entry eligibility.
Furthermore, they argue that many migrants face dire conditions in their home countries — such as extreme poverty, violence, or political persecution — and that a $1,000 payment does little to change these realities.
"Such programs only shift the problem without addressing the root causes of migration," stated a representative from Human Rights Watch.
A New Chapter in Trump's Immigration Policy
The proposal follows the first 100 days of Trump’s second term, characterized by a tougher stance on immigration policy and pressure from conservative sectors for higher deportation numbers. Though ICE claims to have deported over 65,000 individuals during this period, the figures are not significantly higher than those under the previous administration. Consequently, the government is promoting self-deportation as a more efficient, less confrontational strategy that aims to exhibit control without resorting to large-scale operations.
The success of this measure will largely depend on its execution and whether it is perceived by migrants as a realistic and safe option to return to their home countries with dignity.
Key Questions about Trump's Self-Deportation Program
How does the CBP Home app facilitate the self-deportation process?
The CBP Home app allows migrants to register their intention to leave, book a flight to their home country, and confirm their arrival to receive the financial stipend. This process avoids the need for office visits or legal proceedings.
What are the consequences for migrants who do not participate in the program?
Migrants who choose not to participate in the voluntary program face harsher consequences including detention, forced deportation, fines, and potential asset confiscation.
What criticisms have been raised against the incentivized self-deportation program?
Critics argue that the program fails to address the root causes of migration and that the criteria for "good people" is ambiguous. They also point out the dire conditions migrants may face in their home countries, which a $1,000 payment does not alleviate.