Trump’s self-deportation program sees hundreds of thousands of migrants leave US
- Project Homecoming, a U.S. program offering cash incentives and free flights, has led to over 200,000 migrants agreeing to “self-deport,” with approximately half deciding while in detention.
- The program, which began in May 2025, initially had low participation but was significantly expanded following pressure from White House officials, including Stephen Miller.
- Cash incentives for migrants to leave the U.S. were increased from $1,000 to $2,600, with a temporary peak of $3,000 offered during a 10-day period in December.
- A staffer from the former Department of Government Accountability reportedly helped boost participation by introducing Project Homecoming case managers into migrant detention centers.
- The nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute expressed skepticism about the program’s effectiveness, citing a lack of data transparency and historical evidence that similar “pay-to-go” initiatives have had limited success.
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