Amidst its massive overhaul of the current immigration system, the Trump Administration also quietly is implementing policy changes at the northern border with Canada. Although the spotlight remains on the U.S.-Mexican border, relations are growing tense to the north, as well. Heightened security at the border has changed the formerly collegial atmosphere into a much more formal inquiry.
These changes have resulted in growing frustration by people who frequently cross the border out of necessity. For instance, one small town lies partially in Canada and partly in the U.S. As a result, if people on either side must pass over the border to go to the grocery store or a doctor’s appointment, they must check with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, prove their identity, and answer questions. Even worse, the government recently installed a massive steel barrier in the middle of the town to separate the two countries.
As a result, illegal border crossings are on the rise, with an increase of 400% over the past two federal fiscal years. For instance, Mexicans and Romanians do not need to get visas to enter Canada. Therefore, rather than braving the deplorable conditions at the southern border and attempting to cross the Rio Grande, they simply are flying to Canada and paying smugglers to help them cross the northern border.
The number of asylum seekers entering Canada also has steadily increased as the federal government’s tolerance for these individuals has decreased. In 2015, Canada had just over 16,000 individuals arrive at its border and claim asylum. In 2019, that number was closer to 60,000.
No matter the type of immigration issue you are facing, the skilled and knowledgeable immigration lawyers of Peek Law Group are here to assist you. We handle many different types of immigration cases every day and have the kind of strategic experience and skills that are necessary to reach the desired outcome. By calling our office as quickly as possible after your legal issue arises, we will have the best opportunity to resolve your immigration law case successfully.