DHS Offers Forgiveness of Civil Fines and $1,000 Stipend to Noncitizens Who “Self-Deport” Through CBP Home App

In a controversial move that is drawing attention across the immigration and legal communities, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced new incentives for certain noncitizens with deportation or voluntary departure orders to voluntarily leave the United States. Through a newly rebranded mobile tool called the CBP Home App, DHS is promising to waive civil fines, provide cost-free travel, and even offer a $1,000 stipend to individuals who “self-deport.”

This policy is part of a broader initiative called Project Homecoming, promoted by the Trump administration as a cost-effective alternative to formal deportation proceedings. While this may sound like an opportunity, the reality is far more complicated — and potentially dangerous.

What Is the New Self-Deportation Policy?

Under current immigration law, individuals who remain in the U.S. after receiving a final order of removal (also known as a deportation order) may be fined nearly $1,000 per day for failing to depart. These penalties are authorized by the Immigration and Nationality Act but have historically been difficult for DHS to enforce on a wide scale.

DHS has now claimed that any noncitizen with a final removal or voluntary departure order who uses the CBP Home App to coordinate their exit will receive full forgiveness of these fines. In addition, the agency will:

• Cover all travel costs associated with departure, including international airfare.

  
  

• Provide a $1,000 stipend upon verified departure.

  
  

• Coordinate with foreign governments and non-governmental organizations to facilitate reintegration in the home country.

These are the promises being made, but to date, there are no confirmed reports of any individual who has actually received this stipend or had civil fines formally waived. Immigration attorneys and advocates across the country are urging people to approach this program with great caution.

Who Is Eligible?

This program is open to individuals who:

• Are physically present in the United States;

  
  

• Have a final order of removal or a voluntary departure order.

  
  

• Are not in immigration detention;

  
  

• Do not pose a threat to public safety or national security.

  
  

Applicants must use the CBP Home App (formerly known as CBP One) to request participation and to schedule their travel. According to DHS, the goal is to streamline the process and reduce the strain on the immigration enforcement system while encouraging compliance with removal orders.

What This Means for Immigrants

While DHS is promoting this initiative as a humane and voluntary alternative to forced deportation, immigration advocates remain cautious. Voluntary departure is a permanent decision with long-term immigration consequences. Even with forgiven fines, individuals who leave the U.S. under a removal order are typically barred from returning for a minimum of 10 years.

In addition, using the CBP Home App may create a digital trail that can be used by immigration authorities in the future if the individual does not complete the self-deportation process.

Stay Informed

Tran Flores Law does not recommend that anyone participate in this program without first undergoing a full legal evaluation by a qualified and experienced immigration attorney.

Once you leave the U.S. under a deportation order or under voluntary departure, it may be very difficult or even impossible to return. The promises of financial support and fine forgiveness are not guaranteed, and legal recourse against the U.S. government for not delivering on these promises will be difficult, if not impossible.

We strongly urge members of the immigrant community to think carefully and seek trusted legal advice before taking any steps.

Immigration policies are constantly evolving, and staying informed is essential for you and your family. At Tran Flores Law, we share timely, reliable updates to help immigrant communities navigate these changes with confidence.

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