The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a limited-time incentive programme offering undocumented migrants $3,000 and a free flight home if they voluntarily leave the country before the end of the year.
In a statement published on Monday, DHS said undocumented migrants who register for self-deportation through the CBP Home app within the specified period would qualify for the stipend, as well as forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties linked to overstaying in the United States.
According to the department, about 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the US since January 2025, with tens of thousands making use of the CBP Home self-deportation programme.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the incentive was temporarily increased during the Christmas season to encourage voluntary compliance.
“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home program,” Noem said.
“During the Christmas season, the US taxpayer is so generously tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally—offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,” she added.
Noem warned that undocumented migrants who ignore the offer would face arrest and deportation, with permanent restrictions on returning to the United States.
“Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return,” she said.
The programme operates under “Project Homecoming,” launched in May 2025 following a presidential proclamation by former President Donald Trump. Initially, the initiative offered $1,000 and a free flight to migrants who chose voluntary departure.
To fund the flights and incentives, the US State Department reportedly redirected $250 million originally allocated for refugee resettlement.
DHS described the self-deportation process as simple and cost-free, requiring migrants to download the CBP Home app, submit their details, and await travel arrangements fully covered by the US government.
The department reiterated that undocumented migrants who decline the offer risk enforcement actions, including arrest, forced removal, and permanent bans on re-entry into the United States.
