President Trump’s tough stance on illegal immigration is sending shockwaves across the border – but in the opposite direction many expected. Migrants are now fleeing northward from the U.S. into Canada at unprecedented rates as the impact of Trump’s enforcement policies takes hold.
At a glance:
• More migrants are now fleeing from the U.S. into Canada than crossing south into the U.S.
• Homeland Security sources report an increase in “northbounders” who are “self-deporting” from the U.S.
• The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported 40 illegal crossings from Washington into British Columbia in January alone.
• Trump’s immigration policies, including ending birthright citizenship, are driving the northward migration.
• Canada has committed $900 million to strengthen border security in response to the migrant surge.
Trump’s Border Success Sends Migrants Fleeing North
President Trump’s aggressive immigration policies are reshaping migration patterns across North America. Border Patrol agents in Washington state now report an average of five migrants crossing illegally into Canada every day, a complete reversal from previous patterns that saw migrants primarily moving south.
The Trump administration’s enforcement measures have effectively discouraged illegal southern border crossings while simultaneously pushing illegal immigrants already in the U.S. to “self-deport” to Canada. Figures now suggest that more migrants are fleeing into Canada than are coming into the US via the southern border.
Canada Strengthens Border Security Under Pressure
The Canadian government has been forced to respond to the migrant surge with investments in border security. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau committed $900 million to strengthen defenses along the world’s longest international border, stretching 5,525 miles.
This funding will provide the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with enhanced surveillance capabilities, including new helicopters and drones to monitor remote crossing points. Canada has also tightened visa restrictions to prevent migrants from exploiting previously lax admission policies that turned the country into an attractive destination for those fleeing U.S. immigration enforcement.
Policy Changes Driving Migration Patterns
Trump’s immigration orders have fundamentally changed the situation of many illegal immigrants in the United States. The elimination of birthright citizenship, for instance, is a particular concern for pregnant women who fear their children could be born stateless if they remain in the U.S.
The reintroduction of stricter asylum rules, including enhanced screening for foreign nationals and suspended refugee resettlement, has further contributed to the northward exodus. Many migrants who previously entered the U.S. with temporary protected status are now choosing to flee to Canada rather than face unfavorable outcomes in U.S. immigration courts.
Even in remote areas along the 5,525-mile U.S.-Canada border, authorities are witnessing increased northbound migration. Some experts say the Safe Third Country Agreement between the U.S. and Canada may require reassessment as migration patterns evolve.
