The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has tripled the financial incentive offered to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave the country. The agency raised the so-called “exit bonus” from $1,000 to $3,000 under its self-deportation programme.
The updated policy targets migrants who register with the US government and depart before December 31, 2025. DHS says eligible participants will also receive free airfare to their home countries.
How the Self-Deportation Programme Works
Under the programme, migrants must declare their intent to leave through the CBP Home smartphone application. The app replaces the former CBP One platform used during the Biden administration.
Once officials confirm eligibility, DHS arranges travel logistics. The government pays the $3,000 stipend after it verifies that the migrant has exited the United States.
In addition, DHS says it will waive certain civil fines and penalties tied to unlawful presence. However, migrants must comply fully with the process to qualify for these benefits.
DHS Issues Warning to Migrants Who Stay
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a strong warning to migrants who decline the offer. Speaking to CBS News, she said undocumented migrants who refuse to self-deport will face arrest and permanent exclusion from the US.
The Trump administration has retooled CBP Home as part of a broader immigration crackdown. Officials say the voluntary departure system helps reduce enforcement costs while speeding up removals.
Cost Savings and Enforcement Strategy
DHS argues that voluntary departures cost far less than traditional deportations. According to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, arresting, detaining and removing a migrant costs an average of $17,000.
Under the programme, DHS deprioritises participants for ICE arrest if they show progress toward leaving. However, the agency has not clarified how long that protection lasts.
Conflicting Data on Self-Deportation Figures
DHS claims that about 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the US since January 2025. Tens of thousands reportedly used the CBP Home app.
However, independent verification remains limited. Internal figures cited by CBS News suggest that far fewer migrants formally self-deported compared to those removed through enforcement actions.
