As debates continue, addressing visa backlogs, enhancing border security, and tackling organized smuggling networks remain central to managing this complex and evolving challenge
The US-Canada border has witnessed a marked increase in illegal crossings by Indian nationals over recent years, reported business-standard.com.
According to US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) data, Indian migrants accounted for 22% of encounters at the northern border this year, signaling a growing trend.
Rising Numbers Over the Years
The USCBP’s fiscal year, spanning October to September, reveals a significant rise in these crossings. In 2022, 109,535 individuals attempted illegal entry, with Indians comprising 16% (approximately 17,500). By 2023, the total surged to 189,402, with 30,010 Indians apprehended. This year, the figures further climbed to 43,764 Indian migrants out of 198,929 crossings, representing nearly 22%. Despite these numbers being lower than those from Latin America, Indian nationals now form the largest group of extra-hemispheric migrants at the US border over the past four years. Importantly, these figures only reflect apprehensions, leaving the true scale of successful crossings uncertain.
Canada’s Role and Accessibility
Canada’s relatively accessible immigration system is a key factor. A Niskanen Center report highlighted that while the average processing time for a Canadian visitor visa is 76 days, US visa appointments often take nearly a year. Canada also serves as a convenient transit point due to its vast, less fortified border with the US. Additionally, Punjab-based migrants, particularly Sikhs, reportedly benefit from high asylum grant rates in the US, further driving the trend.
Broader Implications: The rising influx of Indian migrants also reflects global immigration trends influenced by economic uncertainty, political instability, and evolving border policies
- The issue poses challenges for policymakers on both sides of the border, as well as for Indian authorities, who view the migrations as primarily economic rather than political
Economic Disparities and Motivations
Economic disparity between India and the US remains a critical driver. Mississippi, the US state with the lowest per capita income, still boasts $48,110—more than 40 times Bihar’s $708, the lowest in India. For many, the prospect of economic upliftment outweighs the risks of the arduous journey. Factors such as unemployment, caste or religious discrimination, and long visa backlogs exacerbate the push to seek better opportunities abroad.
The Influence of Organized Smuggling Networks
Human smuggling networks have capitalized on this trend. These groups exploit gaps in border surveillance and market the northern border as a safer alternative to the heavily guarded US-Mexico border. Social media platforms and word-of-mouth further amplify this perception, encouraging more migrants to attempt the crossing.
Political Dimensions and Challenges
Former US President Donald Trump’s criticism of Canada’s border policies and warnings of economic repercussions underscore the political sensitivity of the issue. Trump’s concerns were reiterated during a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, highlighting the potential strain on US-Canada relations.
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