The Donald Trump administration has unveiled a special Christmas incentive aimed at encouraging undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the United States.
As part of its push to accelerate deportations while cutting enforcement costs, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is offering a cash payment of $3,000 (around Rs 2.7 lakh) along with fully paid travel for those who agree to leave the US before the end of the year.
In a statement, DHS said undocumented migrants who register for self-deportation through the CBP Home app by December 31 will receive the stipend and a free flight to their home country.
Participants will also be eligible for forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties related to overstaying or failing to depart the US, according to NDTV.
The incentive is three times higher than the $1,000 payout announced by the Trump campaign in May and is being promoted as part of a holiday-season drive to speed up voluntary departures.
DHS described the process as quick and straightforward, urging migrants to download the CBP Home app, submit their details and allow authorities to handle travel arrangements.
The department warned that those who ignore the offer face arrest, forced deportation and a permanent ban on re-entry into the United States.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem echoed the warning, saying undocumented migrants should take advantage of the offer, stressing that enforcement action would follow for those who refuse.
According to DHS data, about 1.9 million undocumented migrants have voluntarily self-deported this year, with tens of thousands using the CBP Home app since January 2025. The figures could not be independently verified.
The CBP Home app was originally introduced during the Biden administration to allow migrants to schedule asylum appointments but was later repurposed by the Trump team to facilitate voluntary departures.
