The US Department of Homeland Security has increased the payment amount for migrants who are in the country without legal status and agree to voluntarily leave the United States by the end of the year, raising it to $3,000, according to agency head Kristi Noem.
Source: Bukvy
Participation in the program requires registration through the CBP Home mobile app by New Year’s. In addition to the financial compensation, migrants’ travel to their home country is covered, and civil penalties related to immigration violations, including visa overstays or ignoring orders to leave the US, are canceled.
The program does not cover individuals with a criminal record. DHS emphasizes that voluntary departure allows the possibility of applying for legal entry in the future, whereas forced deportation does not.
The self-deportation initiative was launched in May. Through CBP Home, migrants can independently plan their departure date, complete work or study obligations, and handle personal matters. The Department also notes that this program significantly reduces budgetary costs: previously, the payment was $1,000, while forced deportation of one person costs over $17,000.