Once Title 42 expires on May 11, border officials anticipate a significant increase in the number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.
Experts predict that as many as 10,000 migrants per day could enter the country, nearly double the daily average from a few months ago.
However, the end of Title 42 does not guarantee easier entry into the United States, especially for those who haven’t followed the proper steps.
Immigration experts caution that migrants must still adhere to the established procedures.
In an interview near the border, CBS8’s Steve Price spoke with an attorney who provided insights into what migrants should be doing.
The attorney explains that individuals currently held between the border walls and in an industrial situation are subject to expedited removal.
This means that everyone in this situation could be swiftly deported without going through an immigration court hearing.
Nevertheless, migrant rights attorneys remain hopeful that they will be given the opportunity for a credible fear interview, during which they can present reasons why returning to their home countries could endanger their lives.
The migrants at the border represent people seeking protection from persecution worldwide.
Among them are individuals from India who are victims of religious persecution and people from Russia who are victims of political persecution.
However, it’s important to note that the end of Title 42 and the implementation of Title 8 will not result in an immediate open border policy for all arrivals.
The rush to the border can be attributed to the backlog created by Title 42, which has effectively closed the border to asylum seekers for over three years.
Technically, these migrants are already present in the United States, having entered without inspection, which makes them potentially subject to punishment under immigration law, including a five-year ban on reentering the U.S.
Ideally, these migrants should have applied for asylum in their home countries through the CV P1 app.
However, the application process has been described as glitchy and imperfect.
Additionally, the Biden administration has proposed a rule that requires individuals traveling through a third country to seek asylum in the U.S.
to first apply for asylum in that intermediary country.
The hope behind this rule is to prevent situations like the current influx at the border.
Migrants who have not sought asylum in a third country or applied through the CBP1 app may face difficulties in the future if an asylum ban is implemented.
The ever-changing immigration laws have contributed to confusion among migrants and the general public.
Many migrants receive outdated information from their home countries, exacerbating the confusion.
It is essential for migrants to stay informed about the latest regulations and seek accurate information.
One significant change between Title 42 and Title 8 is that once Title 8 goes into effect, it should be easier for individuals with family members already in the United States to be reunited with them.
This change is eagerly anticipated by many migrants who have sponsors and a place to go within the country.
However, there is still a considerable concern about the fate of the large number of migrants currently at the border.
The authorities will need to determine the reasons behind their desire to come to the United States, assess the potential dangers they face in their hometowns, and process everyone accordingly.
As the transition from Title 42 to Title 8 unfolds, the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border remains uncertain.
The next few days will be crucial in determining the course of action and addressing the concerns of migrants and immigration officials alike.
