More migrants are leaving the US and heading to Canada. Trump’s strict immigration policies are making many people leave, highlighting the ongoing Canada struggles with increasing migration. Homeland Security sources say many are now “self-deporting” to avoid being deported later.
Border Agents in Washington Report More Migrants Crossing Into Canada
Border agents in Washington state report seeing around five migrants crossing into Canada every day. This trend started before Trump officially returned to office. In January, Canadian police recorded 40 illegal crossings from Washington into British Columbia. In the same month, US Border Patrol agents saw 30 migrants crossing south into the US, showcasing the ongoing Canada struggles with border control.
Migrants Fear Deportation and Hope for a Safer Future in Canada
Many of the migrants heading north have temporary legal status in the US. They previously crossed from Mexico but fear they will not win their immigration cases. They are trying to reach Canada before US immigration agents detain and deport them. Some still have legal status, but they are afraid of losing it. Agents are aware of their plans, but the migrants want to leave the US to avoid the risk of being forced out.
Migrants Keep Crossing the Northern Border Despite Harsh Winters
Even in freezing temperatures, migrants continue to flee north. In Alberta, Canadian police found nine migrants, including children, crossing in February. Canadian authorities have already caught 20 illegal migrants there this year, underscoring the Canada struggles with managing the winter influx. Last year, only seven migrants crossed in the same area.
The Flow of Migrants Has Shifted Since the Biden Administration
During Biden’s presidency, record numbers of migrants crossed from Canada into the US. Last year, 23,700 illegal migrants were caught coming from Canada. In 2022, that number was only 2,200. However, this is still much lower than the one million illegal crossings at the southern border last year.
Trump Pressures Canada to Strengthen Border Security Measures
Trump is pushing Canada to do more to stop the migrant flow amid the Canada struggles related to border security. He has threatened Canada with a 25% tariff to force action. In response, Canada is checking asylum claims more carefully and making it harder for migrants to enter.
Canada Invests More Money to Secure Its Borders
Canada is spending $900 million to improve border security. The country is buying two Black Hawk helicopters and drones to monitor illegal crossings. Canada has also tightened visa rules after migrants took advantage of easy travel policies to enter before crossing into the US illegally.
