U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced updates to their CBP One mobile app meant to simplify the migrant appointments process for asylum-seekers and migrants. In addition, CBP is in the process of increasing available appointments to 1,000 on a daily basis. Some portion of each day’s allotment will be earmarked for individuals who have waited the longest for an available appointment. The hours the app is available to book appointments have also been extended. These efforts are meant to improve the odds of confirming an appointment.

CBP is also updating the appointment-setting process. There will be a two-step process. Individuals will be given 23 hours to schedule their appointment if given the opportunity. Individuals will then be given an additional 23 hours to confirm the appointment.

The program was launched in 2020 and focused on cargo inspections. However, CBP One was made available for migrants to foster a legal migration process. Information is gathered from individuals seeking asylum to pre-check their eligibility, prior to their arrival at the U.S. border. If confirmed, appointments can then be set, when available.

However, complaints have arisen that the app is not entirely reliable and shows some glitches. Further, the lack of available appointments limits the success of the approach.

The updates will be available in the coming days, in coordination with the ending of the Title 42 policy. Migration at the U.S. border is expected to see an increase as the policy ends on May 11, 2023. The Biden administration noted that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is increasing its holding capacity, including adding more removal flights. Some countries removal flights are expected to triple.

If you have questions about migrant appointments or any immigration-related issues, contact us at ILBSG. We actively monitor ongoing policy updates to ensure our clients get the right advice for their particular situations.

asylum CBP One App Customs Border Protection Migrant Appointments