U.S. offers $2,600 ‘exit bonus’ for illegal migrants to self-deport voluntarily

The U.S. offers undocumented migrants $2,600 and free flights to voluntarily self-deport through a new DHS program.

The United States Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) announced a scheme offering financial incentives and free travel to undocumented migrants who choose to leave the country voluntarily, using a government mobile application.

The post on X by the department had promotional posters for free flights to India, Colombia and China.

According to the DHS website, migrants without legal status can register their intention to depart through the CBP Home Mobile App and receive a package of benefits that includes cost-free travel arrangements, a cash payment of $2,600 to assist with resettlement and the cancellation of any outstanding fines incurred for failing to depart following a removal order.

The DHS describes the programme as “a historic opportunity,” stating that those who register and pass a vetting process will be temporarily deprioritised by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for detention or enforcement action ahead of their scheduled departure.

You can go home with a fresh start!Receive a FREE flight home and a $2,600 exit bonus when you use CBP Home to self-deport: https://t.co/YGo3uuNvrEpic.twitter.com/ZdSBlrJryO

The department says the scheme is open to those it terms “non-criminal illegal aliens” and is intended to allow participants to depart “as regular travellers — without arrest, detention, or restraints.” The DHS website states that the app gives migrants the opportunity to “wrap up work, school and personal matters and organise their return in an orderly and lawful way.”