Surge in Indian Immigration at U.S.-Canada Border

A significant increase in illegal immigration from India has been observed at the U.S.-Canada border, with nearly 20,000 encounters reported by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) this year, a 95% rise compared to 2022. Nearly 60% of these encounters involve Indian nationals, drawn by economic opportunities and family reunification, as they often first enter Canada, attracted by its lenient immigration policies. Many Indian migrants then cross into the U.S. seeking better job prospects, with a notable informal economy developing around transportation services to New York City. The rise in crossings has led to an increased presence of Indian smugglers and taxi services charging significant fees for rides to urban centers. Despite the dangerous journey through dense forests, many perceive this route as safer than traditional paths through Central America. This surge is straining local communities and raising concerns over border security.