U.S. Border Patrol agents detained fewer migrants without a legal basis crossing the southern U.S. border in March 2024. Apprehensions for the month came in at 137,000 for March, down from 141,000 in February, per preliminary information from Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Influenced by the Mexican government taking a more active approach, this is the first time during the Biden administration, and the last seven years, when migration dropped from February to March of the year. Over the past three years, migrant border crossings without a legal basis spiked in March of each year.
Over 50,000 migrants were admitted to the U.S. with a legal basis in March 2024. Many of these individuals gained legal access through the use of the CBP One mobile phone app, allowing migrants to schedule an appointment for asylum processing. An increase in migration is expected in the spring, as experienced historically. The lower illegal crossing in March is a sign that increased action by Mexico is slowing the U.S. directed illegal migrant border crossings. Further, as the U.S. increased deportation, individuals are less likely to risk crossing without a legal basis. Since May of 2023, the U.S. deported over 630,000 migrants to Mexico or their home countries, per the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data.
Limits to the asylum program are among the options the Biden administration is considering. While executive action may be activated, true U.S. immigration reform is required. Only Congress can reform U.S. immigration policy, last updated in the 1990s.
As always, if you have questions about any U.S. immigration issue, contact us. Our team of experienced attorneys works directly with client to ensure they get the right advice for their particular situations.
