In a controversial move, Donald Trump announced Friday that he has officially signed an executive order to roll out a self-deportation initiative aimed at encouraging undocumented migrants to voluntarily leave the U.S.
“We are making it as easy as possible for illegal aliens to leave America,” Trump said in a social media video. “Any illegal alien can simply show up at an airport and receive a free flight out of our country.”
Migrants can select any destination, except the U.S., and will receive assistance upon arrival confirmation, according to DHS. Trump warned those who choose to stay will face “severe consequences,” including “significant jail time, enormous financial penalties, confiscation of all property, garnishment of all wages, imprisonment and incarceration, and sudden deportation, in a place and manner solely of our discretion.”
To increase participation, the administration is offering a $1,000 “exit bonus” through the CBP Home app. “Illegal aliens submitting their intent to voluntarily self-deport…will also be deprioritized for detention and removal,” DHS said Monday.
Trump argued that the plan would save “billions and billions of dollars” in taxpayer funds.
“If you’re really good, we’re going to try and help you get back in,” he added, hinting at possible reentry support for compliant migrants.
However, the American Immigration Lawyers Association issued a stark warning: “It is deceptive and gives people the impression there are no consequences…No one should accept this without first obtaining good legal advice.”
Over 135,000 deportations have occurred in Trump’s first 100 days back in office.
