The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a temporary incentive to encourage undocumented migrants to voluntarily leave the country during the holiday season.
In a statement published on its website on Monday, the department said undocumented migrants who register to self-deport through the CBP Home app before the end of the year will receive a $3,000 stipend, along with a free flight to their home country.
DHS added that participants in the programme would also benefit from the forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties linked to their failure to depart the United States.
According to the department, about 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the country since January 2025, with tens of thousands making use of the CBP Home programme.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the incentive was temporarily increased in line with the Christmas season.
“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home programme,” Noem said.
“During the Christmas season, the US taxpayer is generously tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in the country illegally, offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but only until the end of the year,” she added.
She warned that undocumented migrants who fail to take advantage of the offer would face arrest and deportation, with permanent restrictions on returning to the United States.
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Guided by a presidential proclamation by former President Donald Trump, DHS launched “Project Homecoming” in May 2025 to promote voluntary departures. Under the initiative, undocumented migrants were initially offered $1,000 and a free flight to leave the country.
To fund the flights and financial incentives, the State Department reportedly redirected $250 million originally allocated for refugee resettlement.
DHS described the self-deportation process via the CBP Home app as simple and free, requiring individuals to download the app, submit their details, and allow the department to arrange and cover their travel.
The department stressed that those who ignore the offer risk arrest, forced deportation, and permanent bans on re-entry into the United States.
