Trump’s Administration Offers $1000 To Migrants Who Voluntarily Self-Deport From US
Reuters reports that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the offer would be significantly cheaper than formal deportation proceedings, which currently cost the government an estimated $17,000 per individual due to arrest, detention, and legal processes.
The Donald Trump’s administration on Monday announced a controversial new incentive aimed at reducing the number of undocumented immigrants in the United States: a $1000 stipend and free travel assistance for those who agree to voluntarily “self-deport.”
Reuters reports that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the offer would be significantly cheaper than formal deportation proceedings, which currently cost the government an estimated $17,000 per individual due to arrest, detention, and legal processes.
“If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest,” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement.
Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has deported 152,000 people—short of the 195,000 deportations carried out between February and April last year under President Joe Biden.
However, despite campaign promises to deport millions, Trump’s administration has trailed his Democratic predecessor in removal numbers.
Migrants who opt into the program through a newly rebranded app, CBP Home — formerly CBP One under the Biden administration —can apply for the stipend and assistance.
Trump initially floated the idea in April, signaling that migrants who leave on good terms might be allowed back under certain conditions.
However, the DHS statement on Monday did not detail any formal pathway for return.
