The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, an increase to $2,600 in stipends offered to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the United States using the government’s CBP Home app.
Incentivizing Voluntary Departure
According to a DHS statement, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stated that undocumented immigrants “should take advantage of this gift and self-deport, because otherwise, we will find them, arrest them, and they will never return.” The financial incentive is coupled with a free airline ticket to the immigrant’s country of origin or another country where they have legal status.
The previous stipend amount was $1,000. DHS reports that the current cost of a single forced deportation is $18,245. With the new $2,600 offer, the cost of a self-deportation through the CBP Home app is reduced to $5,100, representing a savings of over $13,000 per undocumented immigrant for U.S. taxpayers.
Application Process and Benefits
Immigrants intending to utilize the program must register their intention to leave the United States voluntarily through the CBP Home application. Families can apply together by submitting their information in the same session or using the same email address.
The DHS indicates that those without criminal records who submit their intention to leave via CBP Home and pass investigation will have their priority for detention or law enforcement action temporarily removed prior to their scheduled departure. Additionally, civil fines for failing to depart after a final order of removal or voluntary departure will be waived.
The CBP Home app currently has nearly 100,000 users.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of the stipend offered to undocumented immigrants?
The Department of Homeland Security is offering a stipend of $2,600, plus a free airline ticket, to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the United States using the CBP Home app.
How much does the DHS say a forced deportation costs?
The DHS reports that the current cost of a single forced deportation is $18,245.
Can families travel together using this program?
Yes, families can travel together in a self-deportation process if they submit their data in the same session of CBP Home or with the same user email account.
Will the success of this program lead to a significant decrease in the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., or could it be a temporary measure with limited long-term impact?
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