President Donald Trump is putting illegal migrants on notice: take the cash and go, or stay and pay. The administration just teamed up with the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help make self-deportation a real option — with structure, support, and a one-way ticket outta here.
The IOM, which has helped millions of people return home since 1951, is stepping in to guide illegals through the process. “In the United States, many migrants face a challenging reality — navigating complex systems with limited options and resources,” IOM said, as reported by The Washington Post. “This initiative provides support to those who choose to return, helping them make a life-changing decision with care and clarity.”
Here’s how it works: Trump’s offering $1,000 to anyone who chooses to leave on their own. But if they stay? That’s a $998-a-day fine. Ouch. Those who self-deport can even take their earnings with them and get on a future legal immigration list — unlike the ones getting booted and banned.
Over 1,000 migrants have already signed up. And now that the IOM is involved, that number’s expected to climb.
The International Organization for Migration will assist with "self-deportations" from the US for the first time ever
Nearly 1,000 immigrants have signed up for information, the initial stage of the process, per a source https://t.co/RMRvDayRK6
— Kathleen Bush-Joseph (@KathleenBushJo2) May 9, 2025
IOM wants to make one thing crystal clear: “Our role is to ensure that those who lack the means to return on their own can do so in a safe, dignified, and informed way,” they said. “IOM does not facilitate or implement deportations.”
But of course, immigration activists are losing their minds. “I am deeply concerned that this administration is going to present biased information to people,” said Greg Chen from the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
Some foreign towns aren’t happy either — because they’re used to American dollars rolling in from illegals working here. In 2023 alone, nearly $86 billion left the U.S. in “remittances.” That’s money not spent here, not boosting our economy, and not helping Americans.
Places like Nicaragua and Governador Valadares, Brazil, are already feeling the pinch. That cash flow is drying up fast. “We’re talking millions a day vanishing,” said the Brazilian town’s mayor, worried about his local economy.
Bottom line: Trump’s self-deportation plan is working. The gravy train is slowing down, and it’s America — not foreign economies — that’s coming out on top.