The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is launching an initiative to encourage unauthorized immigrants to self-deport by offering a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance through the CBP Home app. This program aims to facilitate voluntary departure from the U.S., with the incentive provided after confirming the individual’s return to their home country via the app.
This move comes amid stagnant deportation rates during President Trump’s initial 100 days in office, despite his campaign promise of mass deportations. DHS has not specified how funds will be distributed or what evidence is required for proof of return. However, spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin indicated that users could verify their departure using biographical data, facial images, and geolocation, requiring them to be at least three miles outside the U.S. to confirm their exit.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem touted self-deportation as a safer and cost-effective alternative, suggesting it could reduce the average cost of deportation—currently at $17,121—by up to 70%. Reports show that at least 5,000 immigrants have expressed intent to self-deport through the app this year, which has seen about 300,000 downloads since 2025.
The Trump administration recently repurposed the Biden-era CBP One app into the CBP Home app, focusing on self-deportation. DHS has invested $200 million to promote the app, ensuring that those demonstrating they are taking steps toward voluntary departure will be deprioritized for detention.
Experts express concern about the implications of the self-deportation message, highlighting that the potential for future legal re-entry remains uncertain for many individuals. Advocates argue that coercing immigrants into leaving poses significant political, moral, and economic costs.
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