The Trump administration has introduced a program encouraging foreign non-citizens living illegally in the U.S. to self-deport by offering a $1,000 stipend and a free flight. This initiative aims to be more cost-effective than current deportation processes, which typically cost around $17,000 per person, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that for those here illegally, self-deportation is the safest and most economical option to avoid arrest.
Participants can sign up through the CBP Home app, which has been upgraded under the Trump administration after initially being used by the Biden administration for asylum requests. Importantly, those opting for self-deportation will receive their stipend only once their departure from the U.S. is confirmed by federal officials.
The administration also noted that individuals who engage in this self-deportation process will be deprioritized for arrest, provided they show they are making progress toward leaving.
DHS further stated that self-deportation offers a dignified alternative for illegal aliens, allowing them to evade U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Even with the stipend factored in, the projected cost reduction for deportation is around 70%, significantly lowering the average total expense.
The release indicated that participating in the CBP Home Self-Deportation program might keep the door open for these individuals to legally re-enter the U.S. in the future.
So far, this program has successfully facilitated the deportation of at least one individual who entered during the Biden era. The person, who was provided with a ticket from Chicago to Honduras, is part of an ongoing series of bookings.
During a discussion on the program, President Trump shared his vision, detailing the intention to provide financial support and help with flights back to their countries of origin. He expressed hope that, following this departure, individuals could potentially reapply to come back legally if they demonstrate good behavior.
Since January, the Trump administration reported the deportation of approximately 140,000 illegal immigrants.
