The United States government has unveiled a Christmas-season initiative offering financial incentives to undocumented immigrants who agree to leave the country voluntarily, warning that those who decline could face deportation.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that undocumented immigrants who enroll in the program before the end of the year will receive a $3,000 cash incentive and free airfare to their home countries.
According to the department, participants must sign up through the CBP Home app to qualify for the offer. DHS added that those who use the platform may also receive waivers for certain civil fines or penalties related to overstaying or failure to depart the country.
The department disclosed that since January 2025, about 1.9 million undocumented immigrants have voluntarily left the United States, with tens of thousands making use of the CBP Home program.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the incentive has been increased for the Christmas period to encourage more voluntary departures.
“During the Christmas season, the U.S. taxpayer is tripling the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in the country illegally by offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but only until the end of the year,” Noem said. She added that those who refuse the offer risk arrest, deportation, and a permanent ban from re-entering the United States.
DHS explained that interested individuals are required to download the CBP Home app, submit their personal details, and await processing, which the department described as quick and seamless. The agency noted that it will handle all travel arrangements for successful applicants.
The department further warned that undocumented immigrants who ignore the offer will be subject to arrest, forced removal, and permanent ineligibility to return to the United States.
