Washington, D.C., May 6, 2025 — In a major new move on immigration policy, the Trump administration has announced a “self-deportation” initiative that offers undocumented immigrants $1,000 in cash and free airfare if they voluntarily leave the United States.
The program, introduced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on May 5, aims to reduce the high costs associated with forced deportations. Officials estimate that by encouraging voluntary departures, the government could lower the average deportation cost from $17,121 to just $4,500 per person.
Eligible participants will be able to apply through a mobile application called CBP Home — a retooled version of the Biden-era CBP One app. Once approved, immigrants will be provided with a free plane ticket and will receive the $1,000 stipend only after DHS confirms they have returned to their home country.
“This program provides a dignified way for people to leave the U.S. voluntarily while saving taxpayer dollars,” a DHS spokesperson said during the announcement.
As an additional incentive, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will deprioritize the arrest or detention of individuals actively participating in the self-deportation program. Officials stated that more than 5,000 people already chose to leave under the new initiative during its soft rollout in April.
While supporters within the administration hailed the move as humane and fiscally responsible, critics raised concerns about potential risks. Immigration advocates warn that people eligible for asylum or other forms of relief might feel pressured to leave without fully understanding their legal rights.
The Trump administration emphasized that individuals who voluntarily depart might have better chances to apply for legal re-entry in the future, depending on their character and immigration history.
The new policy fits into President Trump’s broader immigration strategy during his second term, which also includes plans for stricter border enforcement and mass deportations.
For now, the administration says it will closely monitor the results of the program and consider expanding it based on participation rates and cost savings.
