US offers $2,600 exit bonus to illegal immigrants for self-deportation

The US Department of Homeland Security has announced a programme offering free flights and a $2,600 exit bonus to undocumented migrants, including Indians, who choose to leave the country voluntarily. The initiative, promoted through official posts and outreach material, is part of a broader effort to encourage self-deportation.

The programme, called Project Homecoming, was launched in May last year after the start of US President Donald Trump’s second term. It allows migrants to return to their home countries without detention or enforcement action.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, migrants can use the CBP Home app to begin the process. The platform enables them to register their intent to leave, submit personal details, and access travel assistance along with the financial incentive.


“Receive a FREE flight home and a USD 2,600 exit bonus when you use CBP Home to self-deport,” DHS said in a post on X.

The department said more than 2.2 million undocumented migrants have used the scheme since January 2025. It added that the cost of enforcing a deportation currently stands at $18,245 per person, while the self-deportation programme costs about $5,100, including the incentive.

The DHS said the programme allows migrants to “return home as regular travelers-without arrest, detention, or restraints. It's a safe, orderly alternative that provides assistance and flexibility, not fear.”

It added that using the CBP Home app “allows illegal aliens to plan their return, including having an opportunity to depart in a timely manner - allowing illegal aliens to wrap up work, school, and personal matters and organise their return in an orderly and lawful way.”

The incentive amount has been revised multiple times since launch. It started at $1,000 in May last year, increased to $3,000 during December, and was set at $2,600 in January this year.