The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a limited-time programme aimed at encouraging undocumented migrants to voluntarily leave the country during the holiday season.
Migrants who register to self-deport through the CBP Home app by the end of the year will receive a $3,000 stipend, along with a free flight to their home country, DHS stated in a press release on Monday. Participants will also qualify for forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties related to their failure to depart the United States.
According to DHS, approximately 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the country since January 2025, with tens of thousands using the CBP Home programme. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the holiday incentive as a temporary increase.
“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home programme. During the Christmas season, the US taxpayer is so generously tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally—offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,” the statement read.
Noem also issued a warning for those who do not take part: “Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return,” she said.
The programme, titled “Project Homecoming,” was established in May 2025 under a presidential proclamation issued by former President Donald Trump. Initially, DHS offered $1,000 and a free flight to those willing to self-deport, with funding for the programme coming from $250 million originally allocated for resettling refugees, which has since been repurposed by the State Department.
DHS described the CBP Home app process as fast and free. Migrants can simply download the app, submit their information, and DHS will arrange and cover the cost of travel. The department also warned that individuals who do not participate could face arrest, deportation, and permanent restrictions on returning to the United States.
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