US Plans $1,000 Incentive for Illegal Immigrants to Self-Deport

The Trump administration has introduced a program offering $1,000 and travel assistance to immigrants in the U.S. illegally who voluntarily return to their home countries, aiming to reduce the costs and risks associated with forced deportations. Those who register through the CBP Home app and confirm their departure will receive the stipend and be deprioritized for detention and removal by immigration enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security claims this initiative is projected to cut deportation costs by about 70%, reducing the average expense from over $17,000 to approximately $4,500 per person. Officials argue that self-deportation is a safer and more dignified alternative to arrests, benefiting both law enforcement and departing immigrants. The program has already been used by some individuals, and participants who self-deport may retain the option to return to the U.S. legally in the future. Supporters emphasize the financial savings for taxpayers and the possibility of legal reentry for those who comply.