In a dramatic shift that is sending ripples across immigration policy discussions worldwide, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a historic and voluntary pathway for undocumented migrants to leave the United States on their own terms — and with a generous reward in hand.
That’s right: starting today, any undocumented immigrant who uses the new CBP Home App to voluntarily return to their home country will receive a $1,000 travel stipend after their return is verified. The program officially rolled out this morning and has already seen its first success story — an individual flew from Chicago back to Honduras with full support from DHS.
“Self-deportation is the best, safest, and most cost-effective way to leave the United States,” declared Secretary Kristi Noem. “We are prioritizing dignity, safety, and financial sense — and this program does all three.”
Travel Assistance with a Purpose
This bold initiative, launched through the CBP Home App, is not just a one-way ticket out of the country — it’s a new chapter in self-regulated immigration. Those eligible can now avoid the risks of arrest, detention, and removal by opting into a fully supported return home, including:
- Pre-paid flight tickets
- A $1,000 USD stipend upon verified return
- Protection from ICE detention while preparing to leave
- Future eligibility to legally re-enter the U.S. preserved
This marks the first time in U.S. history that undocumented immigrants can receive financial compensation for choosing to self-deport — a strategy that also saves the federal government up to 70% per individual when compared to traditional deportation processes, which currently cost U.S. taxpayers more than $17,000 per case.
How It Works?
Using the CBP Home App, undocumented individuals can now:
- Submit an “Intent to Depart”
- Schedule their return travel
- Receive priority travel assistance
- Be deprioritized for ICE action
- Get a $1,000 stipend after verification of return.
Claim here: https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/05/05/dhs-announces-historic-travel-assistance-and-stipend-voluntary-self-deportation.
By shifting the paradigm from arrest to autonomy, DHS is betting that dignity and dollars can work together to solve complex immigration issues. With dozens of applications already underway and flights booked for the coming weeks, officials believe this voluntary model could shape the future of humane migration policy.
