U.S. Offers $1,000 for Self-Deportation to Undocumented Migrants

The Trump administration has introduced a program offering undocumented migrants $1,000 and paid travel expenses if they voluntarily return to their home countries, a move officials say could cut deportation costs by about 70%. The initiative, managed via the CBP Home App, allows migrants to notify authorities of their intention to depart and, upon confirmation of arrival in their home country, receive the stipend. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described self-deportation as a 'dignified' and cost-effective alternative to arrest and detention, emphasizing that participants will be deprioritized for enforcement actions during the process. The Department of Homeland Security notes that the traditional cost to arrest, detain, and deport an undocumented migrant is over $17,000, making this voluntary option significantly cheaper for taxpayers. At least one migrant from Honduras has already completed the process using the new program. The move is part of President Trump's broader hardline immigration agenda, which continues to prioritize tough enforcement while seeking cost-saving measures.