The United States has partnered with the United Nations migration agency, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to assist undocumented migrants who wish to return to their home countries voluntarily. This program, known as Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR), offers migrants a choice to leave the US safely and with dignity, rather than being deported.
On May 12, 2025, the IOM clarified that its role is not to facilitate deportations but to help migrants make informed decisions about returning home. According to the IOM, the United States has requested the agency’s support for those who choose to return voluntarily, ensuring they have access to necessary services and information.
The IOM emphasizes that its involvement begins only when individuals give their informed consent to receive assistance. The agency ensures that those who need help can return to their countries of origin in a safe and dignified manner, as part of a rights-based approach to global migration.
The IOM’s work is in response to a broader policy shift in the United States, as President Trump has resumed his crackdown on illegal immigration. His administration has intensified deportations and raids, but the IOM’s program offers an alternative for migrants who want to return home without facing the harsh conditions of deportation.
In a recent video, President Trump announced the launch of a new initiative, offering free flights and an “exit bonus” for migrants who choose to voluntarily leave the country. This program is part of a wider push to encourage self-deportation, which has been a key feature of his immigration policies since his first term in office.
The IOM has been supporting AVR programs for decades and operates in over 100 countries. The agency has helped millions of migrants safely return home, especially those without resources or legal options. The IOM’s program is designed to help migrants make life-changing decisions with clarity and support, navigating the often complex migration systems.
In the United States, many migrants face a difficult reality with limited options for legal residency. The IOM’s voluntary return initiative offers a safer, more informed alternative, ensuring that migrants have the information and support they need to make the best decision for themselves and their families.