by Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new holiday initiative targeting illegal foreign nationals in the United States. The department is promoting the CBP Home App, which offers free flights home and a $1,000 stipend for those who choose to self-deport.
According to DHS, the program is designed to provide a “holiday deal of a lifetime” for individuals residing in the U.S. illegally. Officials say the app makes the process fast, free, and straightforward, allowing participants to fill out their information and have DHS handle travel arrangements, including airfare back to their home countries.
App Development and Background
The CBP Home App is a repurposed platform originally developed under the Trump administration after discontinuing the CBP One App launched by the Biden administration in January 2023. CBP One had facilitated up to 1,000 daily appointments for foreign nationals legally entering the U.S., while the new CBP Home App focuses on enabling self-deportation for those who have overstayed their welcome.
How the Program Works
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the initiative as a way for foreign nationals to “reap the rewards” while returning home legally. Participants who use the app and confirm they have departed the U.S. are eligible to receive the $1,000 stipend.
The program is specifically aimed at non-violent foreign nationals without criminal histories. Eligible participants include:
- Individuals apprehended at a port of entry or between ports
- Categorical parolees whose legal status has expired or is expiring
- Foreign nationals whose Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been terminated
In addition to travel and stipends, participants may have civil fines waived, which could include fines accrued for prior violations of U.S. immigration law.
Project Homecoming and Ongoing Efforts
Earlier in the year, DHS launched Project Homecoming, using chartered flights to return individuals and families to their home countries. Participants received travel assistance, a $1,000 stipend, and the opportunity to return to the U.S. legally in the future.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem first announced the stipend and taxpayer-funded flights in April, following agreements with multiple countries to accept returning citizens. Since then, more than two million foreign nationals have reportedly used the CBP Home App to self-deport, up from 1.6 million by October.
Enforcement and Fines for Non-Compliance
The program also comes alongside a renewed federal registration requirement for all illegal foreign nationals in the U.S. Those who fail to comply with voluntary departure orders or removal directives face fines ranging from $500 for initial violations to up to $9,970 for repeated non-compliance. In recent months, 10,000 fine notices have already been issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Officials emphasize that self-deportation through the CBP Home App is a legal and safe alternative, contrasting with penalties and enforcement actions for those who remain in the U.S. illegally.
Holiday Messaging and Promotion
DHS has also released a short promotional video styled like a 1990s infomercial, encouraging eligible foreign nationals to download the CBP Home App. The department calls self-deportation “the best gift” an individual can give themselves and their families, combining financial incentives with a streamlined process.
What Do You Think?
Do you think programs like the CBP Home App are effective in encouraging self-deportation? Share your thoughts in the comments — we want to hear your perspective on immigration initiatives!
