New “Project Homecoming” offer aims to encourage departures amid record enforcement push, but critics question numbers and coercion
Washington, D.C. – January 22, 2026 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has significantly increased its financial incentive for undocumented immigrants to leave the United States voluntarily, raising the cash stipend to $2,600 (up from the previous $1,000 base) as part of the expanded “Project Homecoming” initiative.
Under the updated policy, individuals who register for voluntary self-deportation through the CBP Home mobile app will receive the $2,600 stipend, a complimentary flight home, and a waiver of civil fines related to unlawful presence. The program is positioned as a more humane and cost-effective alternative to enforced removals.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the increase in a statement marking one year of the Trump administration:
“Since January 2025, 2.2 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported, and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home program. To celebrate one year of this administration, the U.S. taxpayer is generously increasing the incentive to leave voluntarily… offering a $2,600 exit bonus. Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”
DHS officials claim the program saves taxpayer money: the average cost of a forced deportation is approximately $18,245 per person, while a voluntary departure totals around $5,100 (including stipend and travel), yielding claimed savings of over $13,000 per individual.
The offer follows temporary holiday boosts (such as $3,000 in late 2025) and DHS warned that “it may not last long.” Those who do not opt in face heightened risk of arrest, deportation proceedings, and permanent bars to re-entry.
Context and Criticism
The policy arrives amid the administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement, including record visa revocations, expanded operations, and increased ICE manpower. DHS reports thousands of arrests in targeted efforts like “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota.
Immigration advocates have questioned the 2.2 million self-deportation figure, noting that it may include unverified estimates, overstays, and voluntary departures not directly tied to the app. Critics also argue the “voluntary” label is misleading given the threat of forced removal and permanent consequences for non-participation.
For Haitian and other Caribbean communities — many of whom hold TPS, parole status, or are navigating mixed-status households — the program adds another layer of pressure amid ongoing legal challenges to TPS terminations and broader enforcement actions.
L’Union Suite will continue tracking updates on the program, including any changes to the stipend, eligibility, or reported participation numbers. If you or someone you know is affected, consult an accredited immigration attorney or trusted advocacy organization immediately.
Stay informed — knowledge is protection.
