To access the stipend, individuals must use the CBP Home app to notify authorities of their intent to depart, and the payment is issued once their return is verified. Those who participate will also be deprioritized for detention and removal before leaving the U.S.
Officials say this approach is intended to encourage self-deportation, reduce enforcement costs (which average over $17,000 per deportation), and potentially allow for future legal reentry for those who comply. The Department of Homeland Security describes this as a safer and more cost-effective alternative to traditional deportation methods.