Illegal migration attempts by Indians toward the United States have witnessed a major fall. According to new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data, only 20,614 Indian migrants faced illegal entry attempts until May during financial year 2026. This figure marks a 69% decline compared with the same period in 2023. During that period, the number crossed 67,000 cases.
Meanwhile, the reduction has appeared across both major routes used by migrants. The Mexico and Canada borders have recorded significant drops in illegal Indian crossings. According to a Hindustan Times analysis, attempts through Mexico declined by 99%. Additionally, illegal crossings through Canada reduced by 91%. As a result, entering the US through these routes has become much harder for Indian migrants.
CBP Data Shows Continuous Drop In Border Attempts
CBP figures show a sharp change in illegal Indian migration numbers over recent years. Between October and May 2023, authorities caught 67,212 Indian migrants crossing borders illegally. During financial year 2025, this number reduced to nearly 29,000. Later, between October 2025 and May 2026, the figure dropped further to 20,614.
The biggest reason behind this decline remains the strict policies introduced by the Trump administration. The administration increased border security measures and made illegal entry more difficult.
Stricter Security Changes Migrant Decisions
The US government strengthened border enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration. Many migrants stopped attempting illegal routes after understanding the higher risks. According to Gilbert Guerra from the Niskanen Center, border authorities now clearly deny entry to migrants reaching US borders. Therefore, the changing enforcement approach has influenced migration patterns. People who expected illegal entry opportunities now face stronger restrictions.
Dunki Route Attraction Declines Among Indians
The popularity of the “Dunki route” among Indian migrants has reduced significantly. In early 2023, authorities stopped or caught 30,109 Indian migrants at the border.
By May 2026, that number fell sharply to only 417 cases. Meanwhile, attempts through the Canadian border also declined by 91%. This year recorded 2,250 cases involving Indian migrants trying to enter the US through Canada. Officials explain that Canada still sees more Indian migrants compared with Mexico. The reason remains the large Indian population already living in Canada. This existing community makes the route appear easier for new migrants.
The latest figures show how stronger border measures have changed illegal migration trends from India toward the United States.
