CBP One App Cancelled Hours After Trump Takes Office: What It Means for Migrants
On January 20, 2025, just hours after his inauguration, President Donald Trump made sweeping changes to U.S. immigration policy. Among his first actions was the termination of the CBP One app, a digital platform that had played a key role in streamlining entry for migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border.
What Was the CBP One App?
The CBP One app, launched by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in January 2023, was designed to make the immigration process more efficient. The app allowed migrants to schedule appointments with CBP officers at designated ports of entry, ensuring that individuals could request legal entry without crossing the border unlawfully.
Features of the App
- Scheduled appointments to reduce crowding at ports of entry.
- Streamlined documentation submission.
- Accessible for individuals seeking asylum or other forms of humanitarian relief.
By the end of 2024, the CBP One app had facilitated legal entry for nearly one million migrants. For many, it was a lifeline that provided a structured, lawful path to protection.
Learn more about CBP One on the official site.
Why Did President Trump Cancel the CBP One App?
According to the White House’s briefing on inaugural priorities, President Trump emphasized a commitment to “ending policies that undermine the integrity of our borders.” The CBP One app was identified as a program that, while legal, created pathways critics believed enabled “mass migration.”
From the White House’s Statement
- President Trump stated, “The security of the American people will not be compromised by outdated programs that fail to protect our sovereignty.”
- He cited the app as part of a broader effort by the previous administration to “mask the true scale of illegal immigration.”
Read the full America First Priorities statement here.
Immediate Effects of the CBP One Termination
The termination of the CBP One app resulted in the immediate cancellation of all pending appointments, leaving thousands of migrants in uncertainty. Without the app, individuals seeking asylum are now left waiting until other formal policies are implemented.
The Trump administration has announced several forthcoming immigration policies; however, explicit details regarding procedures for asylum seekers have yet to be provided.
Who Is Affected?
- Migrants waiting in Mexican border cities who had scheduled appointments for entry.
- Asylum seekers who relied on the app to comply with U.S. border policies.
Concerns Raised: Humanitarian organizations and immigration advocates warn that the abrupt cancellation could lead to increased unauthorized crossings, further straining the already overstretched border system.
Trump’s Broader Immigration Agenda
In his inaugural speech, President Trump outlined several key priorities that align with his decision to cancel the CBP One app. These include:
- Strengthening border security through increased physical and technological measures.
- Reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring asylum seekers to await their hearings outside the United States.
- Ending automatic birthright citizenship for children of non-citizen parents.
- Combating criminal organizations by designating specific groups as terrorist organizations.
What This Means for Migrants and the Future of Immigration
The termination of the CBP One app marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. For migrants, the loss of a tool that facilitated lawful entry means navigating a more challenging system. For immigration attorneys and advocates, it underscores the need to stay informed and adapt quickly to new regulations.
More Immigration Policy Changes Are Expected
President Trump’s swift action on the CBP One app signals a broader effort to overhaul immigration policy. Experts anticipate additional changes in the coming weeks that could impact asylum seekers, border enforcement, and pathways to legal residency. At Rozas, we are committed to keeping our clients informed about any new developments that may affect their cases.
Our team is closely monitoring policy updates and will provide timely guidance to ensure you understand how these changes may impact you and your family. Stay tuned for more updates on our website and follow us on social media for the latest information.
Need Help Navigating These Changes?
At Rozas, we are dedicated to helping clients understand and navigate complex immigration processes. Having an immigration attorney means you’ll have someone to handle filings, ensure compliance, and advocate for you at every step.
If you or someone you know has been affected by these policy changes, we’re here to help.
- Call us at 225-341-6945
- Schedule a free consultation online
Let us help you navigate the shifting immigration landscape with confidence.
Resources
1. CBP One App Overview - U.S. Customs and Border Protection
2. President Trump’s America First Priorities - White House
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