The Trump administration has expanded its voluntary self-deportation initiative by increasing the exit bonus offered to undocumented immigrants who choose to leave the United States on their own.
The incentive has been raised from $1,000 to $3,000 per person and will be available through December 31, according to administration officials.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the program is designed to encourage compliance with immigration law while reducing the cost and strain of enforcement operations.
Speaking about the policy, Noem described it as a seasonal effort tied to family reunification, noting that individuals who voluntarily return to their home countries during the holidays will receive the increased payment.
Administration officials argue the program saves taxpayer money by lowering detention, court, and removal costs, while accelerating President Trump’s broader push for stricter immigration enforcement. The voluntary departure option is being promoted alongside stepped-up border security measures and expanded interior enforcement.
The White House says the program is part of President Trump’s commitment to restoring immigration law, prioritizing legal immigration, and reducing the financial burden of illegal immigration on American communities.
