US voluntary deportation flight took off Monday, sending 68 migrants back to Honduras and Colombia on a government-funded program. This new program, initiated under the Trump administration, offers migrants financial support and the chance to apply for legal entry into the U.S. in the future.
Migrants Receive Financial Support and Legal Entry Offers
The flight landed in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, where 38 Hondurans, including 19 children, disembarked. Each migrant received a $1,000 debit card funded by the U.S. government. Additionally, they were offered the opportunity to apply for legal entry to the United States someday.
Honduras’ Deputy Foreign Minister Antonio García confirmed that the government will support returning migrants with an extra $100 cash and $200 credit for basic goods.
Migrants Share Experiences and Reasons for Returning
Kevin Antonio Posadas, a Honduran migrant who lived in Houston for three years, chose to return voluntarily. He said the process was simple through the CBP Home App and appreciated the financial help.
“I wanted to see my family and my mom,” Posadas said. He also indicated he might later apply for legal U.S. entry using the government’s program.
Some migrants expressed that living in the U.S. without legal documentation had become more difficult and hostile, affecting their ability to work.
US Officials Promote the Voluntary Deportation Program
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem encouraged undocumented migrants to use the CBP Home App to control their departure and receive financial assistance. She warned that those who do not comply will face fines, arrest, and permanent bans from re-entry.
Deportation Numbers Remain Lower Than Last Year
While the Trump administration aims to increase deportations, Honduran immigration officials note that deportations are currently lower than last year. So far in 2025, about 13,500 Hondurans have been deported, compared to over 15,000 at this point in 2024.
Wilson Paz, Honduras immigration director, does not expect a surge in voluntary deportations but said orderly returns will continue and migrants will be supported.
What’s Next?
The voluntary deportation program remains new, and it is unclear how many migrants will participate. However, the program is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to curb illegal immigration.
Source: AP News
