The Trump administration has introduced a controversial new program aimed at illegal immigrants, offering a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance for those who choose to voluntarily “self-deport” from the United States. Announced on May 5, 2025, by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), this initiative is part of a broader strategy to expedite deportations and reduce costs associated with the deportation process.
According to the DHS, the stipend and potential airfare for migrants who opt for this self-deportation route will be significantly cheaper than traditional deportation methods. Currently, the average cost of arresting, detaining, and deporting an individual without legal status is around $17,000. By…