The United States and Panama reached an agreement focused on closing the Darien Gap. Per the agreement, the U.S. will provide payment for some flights and other assistance to remove migrants who do not have a legal basis to be in Panama. The Darien Gap is a particularly treacherous pathway through Panama for many migrants traveling north to the United States.

The agreement aims to return some migrants back to their homeland in the hopes of deterring irregular migration through Central America. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will also provide training to Panamanian personnel to build expertise in determining which migrants may be removed and which may remain, per Panamanian immigration laws. Smuggling networks known to prey on vulnerable migrants regularly use the Gap as a means of transportation. With high migration through the region, this regional approach is meant to benefit both countries.

The United States will provide equipment, logistics, and transportation to return migrants entering Panama without a legal basis. Panama’s President Mulino has promised to close the dangerous migration route. The President further commented on closing drug and human trafficking through that region of Panama.

Over half a million individuals crossed the Panamanian corridor last year. To date, over 190,000 people have crossed. Most of the migrants are from Venezuela, Ecuador, Colombia, and China.

As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing updates to U.S. immigration policy. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Our team of experienced attorneys work directly with our clients to ensure they get the right advice for their particular situations.

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