The current administration continues to create new barriers and hurdles for many asylum seekers. The administration has now published a tough new rule for the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice that goes into effect on July 16.
It says any “alien who enters or attempts to enter the United States across the southern border after failing to apply for protection in a third country outside the alien’s country of citizenship, nationality, or last lawful habitual residence through which the alien transited en route to the United States is ineligible for asylum.”
There are a few exceptions to this rule. These include:
- Migrants who apply for asylum before arriving
- Victims of human trafficking
- Those who pass through countries that have not signed major international refugee treaties for migrants
- Those who have been denied asylum in the countries they traveled through
The target is clear
This new rule is a direct response to Central American refugees passing through Mexico on their way to the United States. Even though they are fleeing violence in their country of origin, these migrants will be automatically forbidden from applying for asylum in the U.S. unless first applying for protection in Mexico. According to officials, the intention is to reduce the growing number of immigrants seeking to exploit the asylum protections offered to the United States.
Those who have questions about how this effects the plights of friends and family members are advised to speak with immigration law attorney. They will have the most up to date information regarding this and other immigration matters.
