Beginning August 14, 2024, DHS implemented new procedures for processing asylum seekers at the northern border with Canada, reducing the time available for legal representation and increasing the use of expedited removal. The Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), which has been in effect since the previous year, applied to both those who entered the U.S. through Canada and those who crossed between ports of entry (POEs). This agreement generally prevented asylum seekers who entered the U.S. from Canada from applying for asylum here, with some exceptions such as having close family members in the U.S., being unaccompanied minors, holding a valid visa, or demonstrating significant public interest.
DHS began using expedited removal procedures more frequently, particularly due to concerns about a potential smuggling network involving Indian nationals, which had a significant impact on this group.
Detailed information was provided at: https://www.aila.org/library/practice-alert-changes-to-northern-border-processing-of-asylum-seekers
Remzi Guvenc Kulen, Esq.
Kulen Law Firm, P.C.
