Increasing Number of Chinese Immigrants Entering Through U.S. Southern Border

By Better Today On Nov 24, 2023

TL/DR –

There has been a significant surge of Chinese migrants entering the United States across the southern border, with over 24,000 Chinese citizens apprehended in the past year, more than in the preceding 10 years combined. Many of these migrants fly into Ecuador, where they don’t need a visa, and then travel through the dangerous jungle between Colombia and Panama to reach the US, where they often seek asylum. This pattern, along with the fact that China often refuses to take back its citizens who have not been granted asylum, has resulted in an increasing number of Chinese migrants living in the USA.

Surge in Chinese Migrants Crossing US Southern Border

Despite geographical distance and journey hardships, over 24,000 Chinese citizens have entered the United States via Mexico in the last year, surpassing the total of the previous ten years (government data). Most of these migrants fly into Ecuador, which does not require a visa, and then pay smugglers to guide them through the perilous jungle between Colombia and Panama to reach American soil.

Chinese Asylum Seekers’ Success and the Impact on Migration

Chinese citizens have shown higher success rates in US immigration court than asylum seekers from other nations. Even those unsuccessful in their asylum claims end up staying, as China generally refuses to take back its citizens. This situation has fueled further attempts and contributes to the current migrant surge.

Uncooperative Nations and Deportation Challenges

American officials lack authority to compel countries to repatriate their citizens. Among the few uncooperative nations, China stands out as the worst offender. Nearly 100,000 of the 1.3 million individuals with final deportation orders are Chinese.

The ‘Run Philosophy’ and Chinese Exodus

The exodus of Chinese citizens, known as the “run philosophy“, is driven by frustrations with stringent pandemic restrictions and Xi Jinping’s authoritarian regime. These Chinese migrants, mostly middle-class adults, often end up in New York, specifically in Flushing, Queens, a hub for Chinese immigrants.

Dangerous Journey through the Darién Gap

The Darién Gap, the sole land route from South America to the United States, has posed significant challenges for migrants over the past two years. The Chinese now constitute the fourth-largest group braving this treacherous journey. The number of Chinese crossing into the US has reached 24,000 this fiscal year, far exceeding the previous decade’s total.

Implications for China and US-China Relations

Amid China’s economic slowdown and shrinking population, this migration trend poses long-term challenges. Despite the US’s capability to withhold aid or restrict access to certain visas, these measures have not effectively compelled China to cooperate due to the minimal US aid China receives and the deteriorating relations between the two nations.