US Offers Free Flights and Cash Incentives for Illegal Immigrants to Return Home

The US Department of Homeland Security has introduced a new initiative aimed at illegal immigrants, offering free flights back to their home countries along with a cash bonus of $2,600. This program, known as Project Homecoming, encourages voluntary self-deportation through the Customs and Border Protection app. Since its launch, over 2.2 million individuals have participated, significantly reducing the costs associated with enforced deportations. The initiative aims to provide a safe and orderly return for migrants, allowing them to manage their affairs before leaving the country. With the exit bonus set at $2,600, the program presents a financially beneficial alternative for both immigrants and American taxpayers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 10:54 IST

DHS Launches Self-Deportation Initiative

Washington: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the United States has unveiled a program that offers illegal immigrants, including those from India, complimentary flights back to their home countries along with a cash incentive of $2,600.

To promote this self-deportation initiative, the DHS has utilized images of the Taj Mahal alongside notable landmarks from Colombia and China.

In a post on X, the DHS stated, "Receive a FREE flight home and a USD 2,600 exit bonus when you use CBP Home to self-deport."

This initiative, named Project Homecoming, was initiated in May of the previous year, coinciding with the start of President Donald Trump's second term.

Migrants are encouraged to utilize the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) app to initiate the process, which allows them to express their intent to leave voluntarily, provide their information, and learn about travel assistance and the financial incentives available.

Since its launch in January 2025, the DHS reports that over 2.2 million illegal immigrants have taken advantage of this program.

The cost of a single enforced deportation currently stands at $18,245. However, with the new $2,600 incentive, the expense for a self-deportation through the CBP Home App is reduced to just $5,100, resulting in a savings of over $13,000 per illegal immigrant for American taxpayers, according to a January note from the DHS.

This program allows migrants to return home as regular travelers, avoiding arrest, detention, or restraints. It is described as a safe and orderly alternative that offers assistance and flexibility rather than fear.

The DHS emphasizes that using the CBP Home app enables illegal immigrants to plan their return, allowing them to manage work, school, and personal affairs in an organized and lawful manner.

Initially, when the program was launched, the exit bonus was set at $1,000, which was increased to $3,000 during the holiday season in December for those who chose to leave before the new year.

As of January this year, the exit bonus has been standardized at $2,600.