The US government is offering free flights and a USD 2,600 exit bonus to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave the country under a self-deportation programme aimed at reducing enforcement costs. ADVERTISEMENT“Receive a FREE flight home and a USD 2,600 exit bonus when you use CBP Home to self-deport,” DHS said in a post on X. According to DHS data, more than 2.2 million illegal immigrants have availed of the scheme since its rollout in January 2025. The programme, according to official communication, allows migrants to “return home as regular travelers—without arrest, detention, or restraints. Initially set at USD 1,000 in May last year, it was increased to USD 3,000 during the December holiday period for those opting to leave before the new year, before being fixed at USD 2,600 in January this year.

Source: The Telegraph March 18, 2026 06:06 UTC