The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it will provide $1,000 and airfare to undocumented immigrants who choose to voluntarily depart the United States. The program can be accessed through the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) app (https://www.cbp.gov/about/mobile-apps-directory/cbphome), which allows undocumented immigrants to apply for voluntary departure directly.
How the Voluntary Departure Program Works
The DHS explained that the $1,000 payment will be issued only after officials confirm that the individual has left the country. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “If you are currently in the U.S. illegally, voluntary departure is the safest and most cost-effective option to avoid arrest.”
Case Example: Support Already Provided
Officials confirmed that a recent case involving an undocumented immigrant from Honduras successfully completed voluntary departure and received the assistance. Authorities added that voluntary departures cost the government less than half the amount required for formal deportation proceedings.
Deportation Costs: $17,121 Per Person
According to the DHS, deporting a single undocumented immigrant currently costs about $17,121 on average. By using the CBP app to apply for voluntary departure, individuals can avoid contact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and may be eligible to return to the U.S. legally in the future.
BY OK-CHAE KIM [kimokchae04@gmail.com]
