US launches $3,000 ‘leave voluntarily’ immigration plan

US DHS Launches $3,000 Holiday Incentive for Undocumented Migrants to Self-Deport

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a limited-time programme encouraging undocumented migrants to voluntarily leave the country during the holiday season. The initiative, called Project Homecoming, offers participants a $3,000 stipend and a free flight to their home country if they register through the CBP Home app before the end of the year.

Participants will also be eligible for forgiveness of civil fines or penalties related to their failure to depart the United States, making it a unique opportunity for migrants seeking a clean exit.

Project Homecoming: Background and Participation

According to DHS, roughly 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the country since January 2025, with tens of thousands using the CBP Home programme. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the holiday incentive as a temporary increase to encourage participation.

“During the Christmas season, the US taxpayer is generously tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally—offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,” the statement read.

Warning for Non-Participants

Noem added a stern warning for migrants who choose not to participate: “Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”

Funding and Implementation

Project Homecoming was established in May 2025 under a presidential proclamation issued by former President Donald Trump. Initially, the programme offered a $1,000 stipend along with a free flight for voluntary departures. Funding for the initiative comes from $250 million originally allocated for refugee resettlement, repurposed by the State Department.

DHS emphasized that the CBP Home app process is fast and free. Migrants simply need to download the app, submit their information, and the department arranges and covers the cost of travel.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

The department warned that individuals who fail to participate in Project Homecoming could face arrest, deportation, and permanent restrictions on returning to the United States. This underscores DHS’s dual approach of incentives for voluntary departure and enforcement for non-compliance.

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US launches $3,000 ‘leave voluntarily’ immigration plan