Migrants seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border can now use a mobile app to schedule a time to approach a land port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson confirmed on Thursday, a move intended to reduce crossings but which has sparked concerns over privacy and access.
The app, called CBP One, is available in English and Spanish and will allow migrants in Central and Northern Mexico who upload biographical information and a photo to request an appointment at one of eight ports in Texas, Arizona and California, according to a fact sheet.
The administration had previously announced on Thursday it would expand its use of an app, giving asylum seekers direct access to enter their information as a pre-screening step to be given an appointment.
U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration touts the app as a more regulated, potentially quicker alternative to crossing the border. But advocates worry asylum seekers will be required to submit personal information without being guaranteed entry and that some may not have access to a cell phone or internet connection.
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