The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced a new incentive offering undocumented migrants a $3,000 cash payment and a free flight home if they voluntarily leave the United States by the end of the year.
Under the program, migrants can register for voluntary departure through the CBP Home mobile application. The stipend will be issued after authorities confirm that the individual has returned to their home country, officials said.
The incentive represents an increase from a previous voluntary departure payment of $1,000 and is aimed at encouraging migrants to leave without formal arrest or detention.
Homeland Security officials said migrants who choose not to self-deport remain subject to enforcement actions, including arrest and removal, and may face restrictions on re-entering the United States in the future.
The CBP Home app, previously used for immigration appointments, has been repurposed to facilitate voluntary departures. Officials said the approach is intended to reduce the cost of immigration enforcement, which can include detention and court proceedings.
Critics of similar programs in the past have raised concerns about transparency and whether all participants receive promised payments. Immigration advocates have also questioned whether financial incentives adequately address broader immigration challenges. (Newswire)
