U.S. Offers Free Flights, $1,000 Stipend to Undocumented Migrants Who Voluntarily Return Home
The U.S. government has launched a voluntary return program aimed at undocumented migrants, offering free flights and a $1,000 stipend to those willing to self-deport through an updated federal mobile application.
Harry Fones, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced the initiative during a press briefing on Thursday, describing it as a more humane and cost-effective alternative to forced deportation.
The program is managed through the updated CBP One Home app, developed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Fones explained that migrants residing in the U.S. without legal status can now register on the app to request voluntary departure assistance.
“If you are here illegally, you can download the CBP Home app, register, and the U.S. government will provide a free flight back to your country,” he said. “You will also receive a $1,000 stipend upon confirmation of your departure.”
Fones added that families are also eligible for the benefits, with each member receiving $1,000. “So a family of four would receive $4,000 in total,” he said.
Beyond the financial incentive, Fones said voluntary return through the app could help preserve future eligibility for legal reentry into the U.S., unlike deportation, which carries a long-term or permanent reentry ban.
The updated app, which Fones noted had been previously used under the Biden administration for entry processing, has now been reconfigured under the Trump administration to focus on assisting voluntary exits.
Since May, when the travel assistance program began, many undocumented individuals have opted into the initiative. Fones also announced that the DHS is now forgiving civil penalties for those who previously failed to leave the U.S. under voluntary departure orders.
“These fines could reach up to $10,000 or $998 per day for non-compliance with final removal orders,” he said, adding that DHS is working with the Department of Justice to streamline the penalty system through new federal rules.
Using the CBP Home app deprioritizes users from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation list, Fones said, reiterating that deportation enforcement remains a central part of current immigration policy.
“We are enforcing this country’s immigration laws,” he said. “But this app offers a lawful, less disruptive alternative that may help migrants return home with dignity and even preserve future immigration opportunities.”
He concluded by stating that improvements to the app are ongoing to make it more user-friendly and accessible for those seeking assistance.
