The United States Department of Homeland Security has rolled out a temporary incentive designed to encourage undocumented migrants to voluntarily depart the country during the holiday period.
In a statement published on its website on Monday, the department said migrants who register to self-deport using the CBP Home app before the end of the year will receive a $3,000 payment, along with a free flight to their country of origin.
DHS added that individuals who take part in the programme would also be eligible for the cancellation of any civil fines or penalties linked to overstaying or failing to leave the United States.
The department disclosed that approximately 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the country since January 2025, with tens of thousands doing so through the CBP Home initiative.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the incentive was temporarily increased to coincide with the Christmas season.
She noted that while the standard offer provides financial assistance and travel support, the bonus has been tripled for a limited time. Noem urged undocumented migrants to take advantage of the opportunity, warning that those who remain in the country unlawfully risk arrest, deportation and permanent restrictions on returning to the United States.
The incentive scheme falls under “Project Homecoming,” which was launched in May 2025 following a presidential proclamation by former President Donald Trump.
At the programme’s introduction, DHS announced a $1,000 incentive and free flights for voluntary departures. Funding for travel and exit payments was sourced from $250 million redirected by the State Department from funds previously allocated for refugee resettlement.
DHS described the self-deportation process through the CBP Home app as straightforward and cost-free, requiring migrants to submit their details via the app, after which the government arranges and pays for their travel.
The department also reiterated that undocumented migrants who do not take advantage of the programme may face enforcement actions, including arrest, deportation and long-term bans on re-entering the United States.
