The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Monday(05/05/2025) that undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the U.S. will receive a $1,000 stipend. The initiative aims to incentivize compliance with the Trump administration’s deportation policies.

In a statement, DHS described the program as a “historic opportunity” for migrants to obtain “financial and travel assistance” by using the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app to arrange their departure.

“If you are in the U.S. unlawfully, self-deportation is the safest, most efficient, and cost-effective way to avoid arrest,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Through the CBP Home App, DHS is now offering financial support and travel assistance to help individuals return to their home countries.”

Migrants will receive the stipend after verifying their arrival in their country of origin via the app.

Originally launched as CBP One under the Biden administration, the app was primarily used by asylum seekers to schedule screening appointments. However, in March, the Trump administration rebranded and repurposed it to support its deportation efforts.

DHS estimates that the program—even with the added stipend—could reduce federal deportation costs by approximately 70%. The agency also noted that voluntary participation might improve an individual’s chances of legally re-entering the U.S. in the future.

The announcement follows repeated calls from Trump administration officials for migrants to self-deport, accompanied by warnings of prosecution for those who evade immigration enforcement.

Since President Trump took office in January, illegal border crossings have dropped to their lowest levels in decades.

In a separate immigration-related move, the administration has proposed a “gold card” visa program, which would allow wealthy foreign nationals to obtain a U.S. visa—and a potential path to citizenship—for a $5 million investment. Officials say this would replace the existing EB-5 investor visa program, which grants permanent residency to affluent foreign investors.

By: Shishir Timilsena