The northern U.S. border, traditionally a quieter frontier, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in illegal crossings, with Indian nationals emerging as the primary group behind this increase. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported nearly 20,000 encounters with migrants between ports of entry on the northern border in 2024, marking a 95% spike from the previous year. Notably, close to 60% of these individuals are Indian nationals, a demographic increasingly seeking entry into the United States via Canada.
While migration through the southern border has long dominated headlines, the northern border, particularly areas like Vermont, Quebec, and Washington, is becoming a significant entry point for illegal immigrants. Many of these Indian migrants first enter Canada, benefiting from its relatively lenient immigration policies, before making their way into the United States. Canada’s visitor visa system, along with its express entry policies for skilled workers, has made it an appealing initial destination for many migrants. However, the stronger U.S. dollar and better job opportunities draw many to cross the border into America despite the risks involved.
đşď¸Panama has deported 130 Indian migrants who crossed the perilous Darien jungle, marking the first expulsion outside the Americas under a U.S. repatriation deal.
This is the 4th expulsion since the agreement's July signing. #MigrationCrisis #DarienGap #Panama pic.twitter.com/c7YwsngJfg
— Islamabad Vibe (@isb_vibe) September 7, 2024
The rise in Indian migrant crossings is driven by various factors. Economic opportunity and family reunification remain major motivations for many. According to Pablo Bose, director of the Global and Regional Studies Program at the University of Vermont, some Indian migrants seek to escape violent conditions or organized crime back home, while others are driven primarily by the economic advantages of the U.S. compared to Canada. The U.S. also offers lower taxes and higher wages in sectors like hospitality and services, making it a desirable destination.
The Biden administration has taken steps to address this surge. In response, the U.S. is working to expedite the processing of illegal migrants at the northern border through changes in the Safe Third Country Agreement with Canada, which regulates asylum applications between the two nations.
'I don't like those comments': Vance responds to Laura Loomer's attack on Harris' Indian heritage https://t.co/OcYpciCFZg
— Ken Dilanian (@KenDilanianNBC) September 15, 2024
These adjustments aim to process migrants more efficiently, potentially deterring future crossings. Still, local communities are increasingly on edge, with border towns struggling to handle the influx of migrants. Many of these towns are ill-equipped to deal with the logistical and humanitarian challenges posed by this surge.
For many of the migrants, the journey is perilous. Crossing through dense forests and under harsh weather conditions, they often face significant physical and emotional stress. Shivam, a recent migrant from India, described his treacherous trek through thick woods at night, navigating muddy paths and facing other natural obstacles before arriving at the U.S. border. While many migrants claim asylum upon arrival, economic motivations are evident, with most seeking work in cities like New York or Chicago.
The booming business around migrant transportation further underscores the scale of this issue. Taxi services, often run by fellow immigrants, charge hundreds of dollars to transport migrants from border towns to major cities. This informal economy is thriving, further complicating efforts to manage the surge.
As the northern border sees increasing activity, the situation reflects broader concerns about U.S. immigration policy and enforcement. With the 2024 presidential election approaching, immigration is once again at the forefront of political debate. Conservatives have been quick to criticize the Biden administration’s handling of both the southern and northern borders, calling for stricter enforcement and clearer policies to address the rising numbers of illegal crossings. As the debate intensifies, the challenge of securing the northern border will remain a pressing issue for policymakers and local communities alike.
