Trump Offers Cash and Free Flights to Undocumented Immigrants Who Choose to Leave The United States

United States President Donald Trump has announced a new plan that offers money to undocumented immigrants who leave the country voluntarily.Under the programme the government will pay up to Sh336,000 to each person who agrees to depart without force.

The plan also includes a free flight to the migrant’s country of origin paid for by the US government.Officials say the aim is to reduce illegal immigration while cutting the high cost of forced deportations.

The policy was announced on January 21 by the Department of Homeland Security during a media briefing in Washington.According to the department migrants must register through the CBP Home mobile application to qualify.

Once approved participants will receive the cash incentive and travel support before departure.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the offer marks one year of the current administration.

She said more than 2.2 million undocumented immigrants have already left the US voluntarily since January 2025.Tens of thousands have used the CBP Home programme to arrange their exit without arrest.

Noem urged others to take the option warning that enforcement actions will continue nationwide.She said those who ignore the offer risk arrest detention and permanent removal from the country.

The policy is expected to affect thousands of foreign nationals living illegally in the US.This includes Kenyans and other Africans who may choose voluntary return over deportation.

Once approved participants will receive the cash incentive and travel support before departure.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the offer marks one year of the current administration.

She said more than 2.2 million undocumented immigrants have already left the US voluntarily since January 2025.Tens of thousands have used the CBP Home programme to arrange their exit without arrest.

Noem urged others to take the option warning that enforcement actions will continue nationwide.She said those who ignore the offer risk arrest detention and permanent removal from the country.

The policy is expected to affect thousands of foreign nationals living illegally in the US.This includes Kenyans and other Africans who may choose voluntary return over deportation.

Officials warned that forced deportation can lead to long term bans from re entering the country.Government figures show forced deportations are far more expensive for taxpayers.The US spends about Sh2.3 million on one enforced removal.

A voluntary departure including the cash payment and flight costs about Sh659,328.The administration says the savings justify the incentive programme.

President Trump’s government says enforcement will focus on criminals and security threats.During Trump’s first year in office more than 675,000 undocumented immigrants were deported.

Authorities insist immigration laws will be applied strictly without exception.The announcement follows reports naming several Kenyans among high risk undocumented migrants.

Those listed face accusations ranging from fraud to violent crime.Officials say the new policy gives peaceful migrants a final chance to leave legally.

The move has sparked debate among rights groups as many families weigh difficult choices amid tighter immigration controls.Community leaders are advising migrants to seek legal guidance before making decisions that could change their lives forever now.