The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a short-term initiative designed to encourage undocumented migrants to leave the country voluntarily before the end of the year, offering financial assistance and travel support as part of the plan.
Under the programme, eligible migrants who sign up to self-deport using the CBP Home mobile application by December 31 will receive $3,000 along with a government-funded flight to their country of origin. DHS confirmed that participants will also be granted forgiveness of certain civil fines and penalties linked to overstaying or failing to depart the United States.
Key Details of the Programme
• Incentive: $3,000 cash stipend
• Travel: Free, DHS-arranged flight home
• Registration method: CBP Home app
• Deadline: End of the current calendar year
• Legal relief: Waiver of specific civil immigration penalties
The initiative operates under “Project Homecoming,” a programme launched in May 2025 following a presidential proclamation by President Donald Trump. When first introduced, the programme offered a $1,000 payment and free airfare; the current amount represents a temporary increase tied to the holiday season.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the expanded incentive as a limited-time measure, stating that approximately 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the U.S. since January 2025, with tens of thousands using the CBP Home system.
“During the Christmas season, the U.S. taxpayer is tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily—offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but only until the end of the year,” Noem said.
Warning for Non-Participants
DHS emphasized that migrants who do not take advantage of the voluntary departure option may face arrest, formal deportation proceedings, and long-term or permanent bans on returning to the United States. Noem issued a strong warning, saying enforcement efforts would continue against those who remain unlawfully.
How the Process Works
According to DHS, the CBP Home app is intended to simplify voluntary departure. Users submit basic personal information through the app, after which the department coordinates travel logistics and covers the cost of transportation.
Funding Source
The programme is financed through $250 million reallocated by the State Department, funds that were originally designated for refugee resettlement but later redirected to support voluntary departures.
DHS maintains that the initiative is meant to reduce enforcement costs, ease pressure on immigration systems, and provide a structured, legal pathway for undocumented migrants who choose to leave the country on their own terms.
Source: Africa Publicity
