The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently unveiled updates to their CBP One mobile app to simplify the process of scheduling appointments for asylum-seekers and migrants. Additionally, CBP is actively working to increase the daily appointment availability to 1,000 slots. A portion of these appointments will be specifically allocated to individuals who have been waiting the longest for an appointment. Moreover, to improve the chances of securing an appointment, the app’s booking hours have been extended to provide more flexibility.

CBP is also introducing a two-step appointment-setting process. Once granted the opportunity, individuals will have 23 hours to schedule their appointment. Following that, they will receive an additional 23 hours to confirm the appointment.

Initially launched in 2020 with a focus on cargo inspections, the CBP One app was later made accessible to migrants to facilitate a legal migration process. The app enables the collection of information from asylum-seekers to assess their eligibility prior to their arrival at the U.S. border. Upon confirmation of eligibility, appointments can be scheduled as they become available.

However, there have been complaints regarding the reliability of the app, as it has exhibited some glitches. Additionally, the limited number of available appointments has hindered its success overall.

The updated features of the CBP One app will be rolled out in the coming days, coinciding with the expiration of the Title 42 policy. An increase in migration at the U.S. border is anticipated when this policy comes to an end May 11, 2023. In response, the Biden administration has announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is expanding its holding capacity and plans to triple removal flights to certain countries.

For inquiries regarding migrant appointments or any immigration-related matters, please reach out to ILBSG. We closely monitor policy updates to ensure our clients receive accurate guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.