The Donald Trump administration announced an increase in economic stimulus for undocumented migrants who choose voluntary self-deportation, raising it from 2,000 to 2,600 (more than 50,000 Mexican pesos) as part of its mass deportation strategy in the United States and marking the start of the second year of his administration.
What does Trump self-deportation program consist of?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that, as of January 21, migrants without legal status who enrolll in the voluntary deportation program thru the CBP Home app will receive:
- 2,600 in cash.
- Free flight to your country of origin.
This incentive seeks to accelerate the voluntary departure of individuals in an irregular immigration status, reducing operational costs for the U.S. government.
More than 2.2 million migrants have self-deported, says DHS
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that since January 2025, more than 2.2 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily left the United States, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home program.
“To celebrate one year of this administration, U.S. taxpayers are increasing the incentive for those who are in the country illegally to leave voluntarily, offering a 2,600 bonus”, Noem said.
The official warned that those who do not take advantage of this option could face arrest and permanent deportation.
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The stimulus could be temporary
According to DHS, the economic incentive (which was previously 2,000) may not be maintained for long.
“With more than 675,000 deportations during President Trump’s first year, those who remain in the country illegally must understand that it is only a matter of time before they are located, arrested, and removed”, the agency said.
ICE and Border Patrol raids intensify
The announcement comes amid an intensive campaign by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol, which has led to raids, arrests, and deportations in cities such as:
- Los Angeles, California
- Chicago, Illinois
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Various Democratic politicians and officials have described these actions as a strategy by the Trump administration to gain electoral support ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
