Cuban migrants flood asylum offices in southern Mexico following new measures from Trump

The asylum offices in southern Mexico are overwhelmed with Cuban migrants and others from different nationalities. The new policies from Trump complicate their situation, leading many to consider seeking asylum in Mexico.


Asylum offices at the southern border of Mexico are experiencing an unprecedented influx of Cuban migrants and those from other nationalities, according to local media reports.

This increase is due to the recent immigration policies implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump, which restrict the entry of migrants across the border with Mexico.

In Tapachula, Chiapas, hundreds of migrants, mainly from Venezuela, Cuba, and Central American countries, gathered in front of the offices of the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (Comar) last Monday.

The processes have raised concerns among migrants, who fear being deported or not meeting the established criteria.

Jaqueline Alfonso, a Cuban who has been waiting for her asylum appointment for months, expressed: "You have to wait, at least for me, particularly, I didn't come with any intention of going to the United States, I came to stay in Mexico, to get my papers because my intentions are here and not to go anywhere else, that's why it bothers me so much that the paperwork is delayed because I want to build a life here".

The situation has led many migrants to consider alternatives, such as applying for asylum in Mexico. However, the congestion in asylum offices and the uncertainty surrounding the future of immigration policies in the United States complicate their decisions.

One of the most significant measures following Trump's arrival at the White House has been the cancellation of the CBP One mobile app, which allowed migrants to schedule appointments to apply for asylum in the United States.

On January 20, 2025, the incoming administration deactivated this tool, leaving thousands of applicants without a clear path to enter the country legally.

Upon entering the application, users encountered the following message: "Starting January 20, 2025, the CBP One features that previously allowed undocumented foreigners to submit information in advance and schedule appointments at eight ports of entry along the southwestern border are no longer available, and existing appointments have been canceled."

The situation has led the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, to announce that her government will begin the repatriation of migrants stranded in Mexican territory due to the new restrictions imposed by the United States.

Sheinbaum detailed that agreements have been established with several Central American countries, as well as with Cuba, to facilitate the return of these migrants to their countries of origin.

Additionally, he emphasized that Mexico will provide "humanitarian assistance" to those who cannot continue their journey to the United States due to the new immigration restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration and Immigration Policies in Mexico and the United States

Why are the asylum offices in southern Mexico overwhelmed with Cuban migrants?

The saturation of asylum offices in southern Mexico is due to the new immigration measures implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump, which have restricted the entry of migrants into the United States. This has resulted in an increase in the number of migrants seeking asylum in Mexico as an alternative.

What measures has Claudia Sheinbaum's government taken in response to the migration crisis in Mexico?

The government of Claudia Sheinbaum has announced the repatriation of migrants stranded in Mexico due to U.S. restrictions, and has established agreements with several countries to facilitate the return of these migrants. Moreover, Mexico offers "humanitarian assistance" to those unable to continue their journey to the United States.

What impact does the cancellation of the CBP One app have on Cuban migrants?

The cancellation of the CBP One application has left thousands of asylum seekers without a clear path to legally enter the United States. This has resulted in increased uncertainty and desperation among migrants, who now must seek alternatives to move forward in their immigration process.

What options do Cuban migrants have if they do not plan to reach the United States?

Cuban migrants who do not plan to reach the United States can choose to apply for asylum in Mexico, allowing them to access official documents, formal employment, and health services. This provides an opportunity to settle and build a new life in Mexico, without the uncertainty of the journey north.

Filed under:

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.