Trump unveils paid self-deportation plan with bonuses

President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order launching a federally funded self-deportation programme, offering free flights and a cash incentive for undocumented immigrants who choose to "voluntarily and permanently" leave the United States.

In a statement issued through the White House website, Trump described the initiative as a response to what he called a "full-scale invasion" of illegal immigrants, blaming them for rising crime and violence across the country.

“Illegal aliens who remain in the US will face consequences, including sudden deportation at a time and location of our choosing,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “To all illegal aliens: book your free flight right now!”

The programme offers an “exit bonus” as a reward for self-deportation, but also carries a warning: those who do not comply may face harsh penalties, including jail time, financial fines, property confiscation, wage garnishment, and deportation without notice.

The announcement came days after Trump told reporters he planned to "pay each one a certain amount of money, and we’re going to get them a beautiful flight back to where they came from."

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Monday that a $1,000 stipend will be issued upon verified return to the individual’s home country, processed through the CBP Home app.

In a video accompanying the announcement, Trump said: “As long as it’s not here, you can go anywhere you want.”