On May 5, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launched a landmark initiative aimed at reducing deportation costs and enhancing public safety. The newly announced voluntary self-deportation program allows certain undocumented immigrants to arrange their return to their country of origin through the CBP Home App—and receive financial and travel assistance in the process.
Most notably, participants will be eligible for a $1,000 stipend, which will be disbursed after successful confirmation of departure through the CBP Home App.
Key Features of the New Self-Deportation Initiative
- $1,000 post-departure stipend for undocumented immigrants who successfully use the CBP Home App to self-deport.
- Travel assistance, including domestic and international travel arrangements, coordinated directly through DHS.
- Cost reduction for U.S. taxpayers—with self-deportation projected to cut deportation costs by up to 70%. Traditional removal proceedings cost an average of $17,121 per person.
- Reduced enforcement priority for individuals demonstrating meaningful efforts to leave voluntarily under the program.
According to DHS, the first participant in this program—a Honduran national—has already returned home. Additional departures are scheduled in the coming weeks.
Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that this pathway provides a dignified, lawful, and cost-effective method for undocumented immigrants to exit the U.S. and potentially preserve eligibility for future lawful entry.
“This is the safest option for our law enforcement, aliens, and a 70% savings for U.S. taxpayers,” said Secretary Noem. “Download the CBP Home App TODAY and self-deport.”
How to Participate
Undocumented individuals seeking to take part in the program must:
- Download and register on the CBP Home App.
- Submit an “Intent to Depart.”
- Coordinate travel arrangements through the app.
- Receive the $1,000 stipend after DHS confirms the departure.
Participation in the CBP Home program does not guarantee future immigration benefits, but may help preserve eligibility for legal re-entry, provided the self-departure process is completed in good faith and without enforcement interference.
For additional program details, visit: www.dhs.gov/CBPhome
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who qualifies for the self-deportation stipend?
Undocumented immigrants currently in the U.S. who voluntarily submit an “Intent to Depart” through the CBP Home App may qualify. DHS reviews each submission individually.
Q2: When will the $1,000 stipend be issued?
The stipend is paid after DHS confirms that the individual has left the United States through the CBP Home App.
Q3: Will I be arrested if I submit my intent to depart?
No. DHS has stated that individuals participating in this program and actively planning their departure will be deprioritized for detention or removal while preparing to leave.
Q4: Does this guarantee I can return to the U.S. legally later?
Not automatically. However, participating in this program in good faith may support future immigration efforts by demonstrating voluntary compliance.
Q5: How can I get help with the CBP Home App?
Support resources and detailed instructions are available on the official site: www.dhs.gov/CBPhome
At Ahluwalia Law Offices, we are committed to helping immigrants understand their legal rights and explore all available options under evolving U.S. immigration policy. If you have questions about voluntary departure, removal proceedings, or pathways to legal status, contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation.
