The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the launch of a “self-deportation” programme for illegal migrants under which they will be given money to leave the country.
“If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest. DHS is now offering illegal aliens financial travel assistance and a stipend to return to their home country through the CBP Home App,” said Secretary Kristi Noem.
The agency offers illegal migrants who leave the country on their own using a special application a stipend of one thousand dollars. Participants in the programme will be able to receive the money only after returning home, as well as a potential chance to return to the United States in the future.
According to DHS estimates, the programme, even including stipends, would reduce US spending on the removal of irregular migrants by 70%. Currently, it costs an average of $17,121 to apprehend, detain and deport one illegal migrant.
According to The Washington Post, the Trump administration plans to deport one million people from the US by the end of the year.
