United States President Donald Trump has unveiled a new voluntary deportation initiative that would provide free flights for undocumented migrants who choose to leave the country.
The initiative, outlined in an executive order signed on Friday, is called “Project Homecoming” and was announced via a 90-second video message posted to the official White House X account.
Trump described the programme as the first of its kind, offering what he called a “self-deportation” pathway for those in the US illegally.
“Any illegal alien can simply show up at an airport and receive a free flight out of our country,” Trump said. “We have also launched a phone app called CBP Home - that’s C-B-P-H-O-M-E - where illegals can book a free flight to any foreign country. As long as it’s not here, you can go anywhere you want.”
In addition to the flight offer, Trump mentioned an “exit bonus” designed to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily. While details of this incentive were not clarified, Trump claimed the programme would save American taxpayers “billions and billions of dollars”.
He further criticised President Joe Biden’s immigration policies, claiming they had caused “irreparable damage” to the country and that removing undocumented immigrants would result in significant long-term savings.
“For those who choose not to leave, there will be serious consequences,” Trump said. He listed possible penalties for remaining in the country illegally, including imprisonment, property confiscation, wage garnishment and deportation “in a place and manner solely of our discretion.”
Trump concluded the message by encouraging undocumented migrants to book a free flight, suggesting that those who comply may be considered for legal re-entry at a later stage.
The announcement has already sparked debate among immigration advocates and policy analysts, with some questioning the practicality and legality of the proposed measures.
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