Noem spent $200M on ads to get people to self-deport via a new app. The exact total who have remains a mystery

Source: The Independent

Thursday 04 September 2025 13:35 EDT


Kristi Noem’s Department of Homeland Security has spent $200m on ads promoting an app for migrants to self-deport, but so far hasn't released data on exactly how many people have actually used it. Last month, Noem promised to share the numbers of migrants who had used the CBP Home app, through which people are supposed to receive financial assistance of up to $1,000, a free flight home, as well as preserving their chance to return legally to the U.S.

“We know thousands and thousands of people have used the app,” Noem told reporters at a press conference. However, no official figures appear to have been released by the DHS. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin reiterated Noem’s claim that thousands of migrants have utilized the CBP Home app since its launch, adding that 1.6 million illegal immigrants have left the U.S, both voluntarily and involuntarily, since Trump returned to office on January 20.

“After successfully ending the invasion of our country and securing our southern border, President Trump established the visionary Project Homecoming in May to create a smooth, efficient process for illegal aliens to return home,” McLaughlin added in a statement, shared with The Independent. “By using the CBP Home App, illegal aliens will receive a complimentary one-way plane ticket home, a $1,000 exit bonus, and forgiveness of any fines previously assessed for failure to depart.”

DHS data on the app, obtained by NBC News through a Freedom of Information Act request, said that despite thousands of downloads, including a spike following the return of Donald Trump to the White House, its actual use has been less successful. During five weeks from March 10 to April 16, only 356 people used the CBP Home app to self-deport, according to the outlet’s request.

Read more: https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/kristi-noem-self-deportation-app-numbers-b2820292.html