Written/Reviewed By:
Flávio DaCosta Esq.
Last Updated: May 18, 2026
Read Time: 2 mins
In a major policy announcement made earlier today, President Donald Trump unveiled a new federal program that will offer $1,000 to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily agree to leave the United States.
Speaking from the White House, President Trump described the measure as a “common-sense solution” to what he called the “ongoing immigration crisis.” The initiative, set to begin in the coming weeks, is aimed at encouraging voluntary departures in exchange for a one-time cash payment.
“It’s simple: if you’re here illegally and you choose to leave, we will give you $1,000 to help you get started back in your home country,” Trump stated during the press conference. “It will save taxpayer money, reduce strain on our immigration courts, and restore law and order at the border.”
The announcement has already drawn sharp criticism from immigration advocates, who argue that the program exploits vulnerable individuals by pressuring them into leaving the country for a relatively small sum. Several civil rights organizations are already exploring legal challenges.
Supporters of the measure, however, claim it’s a practical and humane way to reduce the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. without resorting to detention or forced removals. Administration officials say the program will be overseen by the Department of Homeland Security and will include a vetting process to determine eligibility.
Details on how the funds will be distributed and who exactly qualifies for the incentive are expected to be released later this week.
As immigration remains a deeply divisive issue, today’s announcement underscores the Trump administration’s hardline approach—and sets the stage for further legal and political battles in the months ahead.
