Trump offers unauthorized immigrants $1,000 to leave the country
The Trump administration has unveiled a new program that provides $1,000 in financial aid and travel assistance to undocumented migrants who voluntarily choose to depart the United States, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In a statement, DHS characterized voluntary departure as “the best, safest, and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest.” The initiative is being implemented via the CBP One mobile app.
If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest. DHS is now offering financial travel assistance and a stipend to support voluntary return through the CBP Home App,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
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Immigration enforcement continues to be a central pillar of Donald Trump’s presidency and re-election campaign. However, officials admit that deportation efforts come with a high price tag. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) estimates that arresting, detaining, and removing an undocumented individual costs roughly $17,000.
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In contrast, the newly launched stipend program is far more cost-effective and has already been utilized. “An individual who entered the country under the Biden administration recently took advantage of the initiative to return to Honduras on a flight from Chicago,” DHS stated, adding that more flights are planned in the coming weeks.
Since Trump resumed office on January 20, his administration has deported an estimated 152,000 individuals, fewer than the 195,000 removals carried out from February to April last year under the Biden administration.
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