Washington, D.C. – May 2025
The Trump administration has unveiled a new immigration policy offering undocumented immigrants in the United States a one-time payment of $1,000 if they voluntarily depart the country. The initiative, described by officials as a cost-effective alternative to forced deportation, has drawn mixed reactions from immigration experts, advocacy groups, and international observers.
Under the program, undocumented migrants who opt to leave may apply through a new mobile platform called CBP Home, a rebranded version of the Customs and Border Protection app. The application allows users to submit travel plans, receive logistical support for departure, and qualify for the monetary incentive. The U.S. government has committed to covering the cost of travel in addition to the stipend.
According to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials, the average cost of deportation through traditional enforcement mechanisms exceeds $17,000 per individual. By contrast, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that voluntary departure “represents the most efficient, humane, and fiscally responsible method of restoring lawful immigration processes.”
The initiative is part of a broader immigration policy overhaul authorized under Executive Order 14159, which expands expedited removals and introduces new administrative penalties for unauthorized presence.
Despite the administration’s framing, the policy has been met with sharp criticism. Immigration advocates warn that individuals may unknowingly forfeit legal avenues such as asylum claims by enrolling in the program. Legal analysts also note that many participants may still face a reentry bar of up to 10 years under existing immigration laws.
The program is being promoted through a $200 million public awareness campaign titled “Stay Out and Leave Now,” which has raised additional concerns about the tone and intent of the policy rollout.
Mass demonstrations have taken place in major cities including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, where civil rights groups accuse the administration of using financial coercion to encourage self-deportation. The American Immigration Council described the initiative as “a public relations move masking a punitive agenda.”
Internationally, governments of several Latin American and African countries are closely monitoring the policy’s impact, particularly in relation to reintegration support and consular coordination for returnees.
As implementation proceeds, DHS has stated it will evaluate participation rates and explore potential adjustments. The administration has not ruled out expanding the program or offering additional incentives in the future.