Over the past four years, the United States has experienced significant challenges related to illegal immigration. The federal government reports that this situation has impacted American communities by straining resources in schools and hospitals and increasing costs for taxpayers due to social services expenditures. According to recent estimates, these expenses amounted to over $150 billion in taxpayer dollars during Fiscal Year 2023.
In response, President Donald J. Trump has announced a new initiative named Project Homecoming. This program aims to encourage voluntary departure of individuals residing illegally in the United States by offering financial incentives. President Trump emphasized his commitment "to end this invasion, remove the illegal-alien invaders from the United States, and protect the American people."
Project Homecoming outlines several key measures:
1. The establishment of seamless processes for rapid departure through technological means such as a "CBP Home" application.
2. Funding for flights facilitating voluntary permanent departure will be provided by the federal government.
3. Creation of a concierge service enabling individuals without valid travel documents to book air travel and claim an exit bonus upon successful relocation.
4. Financial incentives in the form of an “exit bonus” for those who voluntarily leave.
Additionally, there are outlined penalties for those who fail to depart voluntarily, including potential prosecution, fines, garnishment of wages, and confiscation of personal property.
A nationwide communication campaign will inform individuals about cost-free travel options and consequences for non-compliance with immigration laws. Furthermore, within 60 days from this proclamation's date, enforcement operations will be expanded by at least 20,000 officers through deputizing state and local law enforcement personnel.
President Trump signed this proclamation on May 9th, 2025.
