United States has offered $3000 and free flights for illegal migrants to go back to their countries or leave America.
Trump administration has increased incentives for migrants who agree to voluntarily leave the United States. The Department of Homeland Security announced the stipend now stands at $3,000.
The revised amount triples the previous $1,000 offer. Officials said the move aims to accelerate voluntary departures before stricter enforcement begins.
The incentive applies to migrants living in the United States illegally. Eligible individuals must register for self-deportation through the CBP Home app by year’s end.
In addition to the cash payment, the government will provide a free flight. DHS said flights will return migrants to their countries of origin.
CBP Home App Central to Voluntary Exit Plan
Earlier this year, the administration launched a redesigned mobile application named CBP Home. The app streamlines the voluntary departure process.
Officials said the platform simplifies registration and travel coordination. It also allows authorities to track compliance more efficiently.
According to DHS, the app reflects a broader push toward digital enforcement tools. These tools aim to reduce administrative delays.
The department encouraged eligible migrants to act quickly. Officials warned that the incentive may not remain available.
Administration Pairs Incentives With Enforcement Warning
Federal officials framed the program as both an opportunity and a warning. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem urged migrants to accept the offer.
She said voluntary departure offers a safer and lawful exit option. However, she stressed that refusal carries serious consequences.
According to Noem, enforcement actions will target those who remain illegally. Arrest and deportation will follow noncompliance.
She added that forced removal triggers permanent bans. Those individuals would never regain legal entry into the United States.
Immigration Enforcement Central to Trump Agenda
President Donald Trump returned to office in January. Since then, he has placed immigration enforcement at the center of his agenda.
He pledged to conduct deportations at historic levels. His administration set a goal of removing one million immigrants annually.
So far, authorities have deported approximately 622,000 people this year. Officials acknowledged the pace remains below initial targets.
Nevertheless, the administration said enforcement efforts continue to expand. Leaders described the current phase as foundational.
Funding and Staffing Plans for 2026 Crackdown
Meanwhile, federal agencies are preparing for a broader immigration crackdown in 2026. US officials expect billions of dollars in new funding.
Planned measures include hiring thousands of additional immigration officers. Officials said staffing shortages currently limit enforcement capacity.
The administration also plans to expand detention facilities nationwide. Increased capacity would allow longer custody periods before removal.
In addition, authorities will partner with private companies. These firms will help locate individuals without legal status.
Officials said data analytics and surveillance tools will support these efforts. They emphasized compliance with federal laws during operations.
Officials Defend Voluntary Departure Strategy
Administration officials defended the voluntary departure program. They said it reduces costs and eases pressure on detention systems.
Officials argued that incentives encourage cooperation. Voluntary exits also lower legal and logistical challenges.
Moreover, DHS said the program offers dignity and choice. Migrants can avoid detention and forced removal.
However, critics have questioned the approach. Some argue it prioritizes enforcement over humanitarian concerns.
Despite criticism, the administration signaled no policy reversal. Officials said incentives and enforcement will continue in parallel.
They urged eligible migrants to decide quickly. Authorities warned that future policies may offer fewer options.
