DHS Launches Historic Voluntary Self-Deportation Program with Assistance and Stipend

On May 5, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a historic new initiative: offering financial and travel assistance to undocumented immigrants who wish to voluntarily return to their country of origin. Through the CBP Home mobile app, participants can self-deport and receive a $1,000 stipend upon confirmation of their return.

The program aims to provide a dignified, safe, and less costly way for undocumented individuals to leave the country, avoiding arrest and detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to official estimates, even with the stipend included, the program could reduce deportation-related operational costs by approximately 70%, compared to the current average cost of $17,121 per person.

Also Read: “Trump Seeks End to TPS for Venezuelans: Case Reaches Supreme Court”

DHS confirmed that the first immigrant to use the program has already returned to Honduras from Chicago, marking a milestone for the initiative. Several additional travel reservations have been made for the coming weeks, reflecting growing interest in this new option.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated:
“If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest, and most affordable way to leave the United States and avoid arrest. DHS is now offering financial travel assistance and a stipend to return to your home country through the CBP Home app.”

Immigrants who notify their Intent to Depart via the app will also be deprioritized for detention and removal, as long as they demonstrate progress toward voluntary departure. Participation in this program could help preserve future legal reentry options to the United States.

For more information or to begin the process, interested individuals can visit the official site: DHS.gov/CBPhome.

From: ttps://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/05/05/dhs-announces-historic-travel-assistance-and-stipend-voluntary-self-deportation 

For more information on these topics, visit Paralegal Clases’ social media pages and join our live sessions every Wednesday.

Instagram:   @Paralegalclases
Facebook:   Instituto Paralegal de las Américas
Youtube:   Instituto Paralegal
Tiktok:   @Paralegalnews