WASHINGTON, D.C.– President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday to establish a federally funded self-deportation program, which offers paid flights and an “exit bonus” to individuals who voluntarily leave the United States.
In a statement, Trump attributed crime and violence to what he called “a full-scale invasion” by immigrants living illegally in the U.S. He emphasized that undocumented immigrants who remain in the country could face penalties, including deportation, at the administration’s discretion.
Trump encouraged undocumented individuals to take advantage of the program and arrange for their “free flight” through a post on the White House website.
This executive order is part of the Trump administration’s broader immigration agenda, which has been a significant focus of his presidency. It seeks to provide financial incentives for individuals to leave the U.S. voluntarily, rather than face forced deportation.
The order, however, does not specify the amount of the “exit bonus” or provide detailed information on how the program will be implemented.