The topic of immigrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border has always been a hotly contested subject. But the situation is getting a lot more complicated thanks to a recently unveiled agreement that might make it easier – or more difficult – for certain immigrants to enter America. Officials from both the U.S. and Mexico have recently agreed to a five-point immigration plan, which would make up to 100,000 individuals from the countries El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras eligible to live and work in the U.S. if they have family there.
The agreement will also see Mexico continuing to accept up to 30,000 immigrants turned away from the U.S. side of the border. These include immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela.
Migrant Protection Protocols
Mexico will continue to uphold its part of America’s Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) by accepting 30,000 immigrants turned down at the border. Also known as the “Remain in Mexico” policy, it is the biggest hurdle for anyone seeking asylum in the U.S. The policy forces refugees to remain in Mexico until their immigration court date in America.
Initially implemented in 2019 by the Trump administration, it was terminated by the Biden administration in 2021 – only to be reinstated with minor adjustments.
According to reports, local officials abused nearly half of the asylum seekers taking temporary refuge in Mexico. The MPP also caused many immigrants to miss their scheduled court dates due to transportation difficulties.
CBP One
There is some hope, however. Earlier this year, the U.S. expanded its online migrant application portal CBP One as part of the Biden administration’s efforts to revamp problematic immigration protocols. By signing up through CBP One, refugees can directly submit an asylum application to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Those detained under the MPP may apply through the portal.
Seeking legal help in the immigration process
Applying for asylum in the U.S. has become a much more problematic process. U.S.-based families of refugees detained in Mexico should consider speaking with an attorney who can provide legal advice and assistance.