- Officials further cautioned that individuals who decline the programme may face tougher enforcement measures
- Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, described the holiday offer as a temporary boost to an existing self-deportation scheme
- Authorities said those who participate will also have outstanding civil penalties linked to overstaying
The United States Department of Homeland Security has rolled out a short-term initiative designed to persuade undocumented immigrants to leave the country willingly during the festive period.
Eko Hot Blog reports that under the programme, migrants who sign up to depart voluntarily through the CBP Home mobile application before the end of the year will be entitled to a $3,000 cash incentive, alongside a fully sponsored return flight to their country of origin.
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Authorities said those who participate will also have outstanding civil penalties linked to overstaying or failure to exit the United States waived, provided they complete the process within the stipulated time frame.
Data released by the department shows that about 1.9 million undocumented migrants have exited the U.S. on their own since January 2025, with tens of thousands making use of the CBP Home platform to arrange their departure.
Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, described the holiday offer as a temporary boost to an existing self-deportation scheme, explaining that the incentive was increased specifically for the Christmas season.
According to her, the government has tripled the earlier benefit as a one-off measure, stressing that the $3,000 payment is only available until the close of the year.
She also issued a strong warning to those who ignore the offer, noting that undocumented migrants who refuse to take advantage of the programme risk arrest, forced removal and permanent bans from re-entering the United States.
The initiative, known as Project Homecoming, was launched in May 2025 following a presidential proclamation issued by former President Donald Trump. At inception, participants were offered $1,000 and a free ticket home.
Funding for the scheme was drawn from $250 million initially earmarked for refugee resettlement, which was later redirected by the U.S. State Department to support voluntary departures.
DHS explained that the CBP Home app provides a simple and cost-free process, allowing migrants to submit their details electronically while the government handles travel arrangements.
Officials further cautioned that individuals who decline the programme may face tougher enforcement measures, including detention, compulsory deportation and long-term restrictions on future entry into the country.
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