For many, seeking asylum in the United States represents a beacon of hope and a chance for a better life after fleeing hardship.
At one time, the CBP One™ app was a helpful tool that allowed asylum seekers in the U.S. to schedule appointments and streamline the application process.
However, the app was recently discontinued, with all pre-booked appointments canceled.
If you’re feeling uncertain about how this affects your chances of entering the U.S., you’re not alone. We’re here to help you through this confusing and challenging time.
Below, we’ll walk you through what this change means for asylum seekers—and explore alternative ways to pursue refuge in the U.S.
What Was the CPB One App?
As one of the largest enforcement agencies in the world, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) works to secure U.S. borders while ensuring safe international travel and trade, as well as lawful immigration.
In 2020, CBP launched the CBP One app. At first, it was mainly focused on helping travelers access Form I-94 information, scheduling inspections for perishable cargo, and assisting international groups working to help individuals enter the U.S.
But by January 2023, the app expanded to allow asylum seekers to book appointments at ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border.
This new feature aimed to reduce wait times and make the process of seeking asylum safer and more organized.
By May 2023, the app was the only way that asylum seekers could schedule appointments.
However, in January 2025, the Trump administration decided to shut down the app’s asylum scheduling feature and cancel existing appointments.
Since then, CBP One appears to have completely disappeared from the CBP website, as well as Google Play and the Apple App Store.
This recent change has left many confused—especially those who had carefully followed the rules and waited patiently for their appointments.
Alternative Pathways to Asylum
The CBP One asylum app was certainly convenient, but with recent changes, it’s no longer an option.
That said, there are still other ways to request asylum in the U.S.
Port of Entry
One option is presenting yourself at a U.S. port of entry and declaring your intent to seek asylum. You may face long wait times and potential detention, but it’s still a path available for those in need of refuge.
When you arrive at a port of entry, government officers will process your case. You may undergo a credible fear interview, where your asylum claim is initially assessed.
If your credible fear is confirmed, you may be detained for further processing. Some individuals may be released with conditions.
Submit Form I-589
You may also be able to officially request asylum by submitting Form I-589. To be considered, you must:
- Be physically present in the U.S.
- File your form with U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) within one year of your arrival.
There is no fee for the application, and usually, the USCIS makes its decision within about six months.
After you’ve applied, USCIS will collect your biometrics for background checks, and you’ll be scheduled for an asylum interview, where your case will be reviewed.
If your case is successful, you’ll be allowed to stay in the U.S. and can apply for permanent residency after one year.
Other Ways to Enter the U.S.
If you’re seeking asylum, there are other legal ways to enter the U.S. as well.
Below, we’ve listed information about various programs and processes that provide protection and a safe path for those in need.
Humanitarian Parole
Humanitarian parole lets non-U.S. citizens enter the U.S. temporarily for a variety of reasons, including the need to escape targeted harm such as violence or political persecution.
Parole is short-term, usually granted for up to one year, and does not automatically lead to permanent residency. However, you can live and work in the U.S. while on humanitarian parole.
The application process involves a fair amount of preparation and paperwork and can be quite lengthy—plus, there is no guarantee of approval.
That said, humanitarian parole is a valuable lifeline for those in need of refuge during a crisis.
Work and Student Visas
If you wish to work in the U.S., you can apply for either a temporary or permanent work visa:
- Permanent work visas are for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. To qualify, you usually need a job offer as well as labor certification.
- Temporary work visas are for people planning to work for a set period. Popular types include H visas for specialized workers, O visas for those with extraordinary abilities, L visas for company transfers, and B-1 visas for short business trips.
Keep in mind that these visas can be competitive: It’s important to apply early, stay on top of your paperwork, and keep an eye on any changes in immigration laws.
Meanwhile, if you’d like to study in the U.S., you’ll likely need an F-1 or M-1 visa. F-1 is for academic students, while M-1 is for vocational programs. With an F-1, you’ll need to maintain a full course load.
Both F-1 and M-1 visas are temporary, but there are ways to extend your stay or even apply for a green card later.
Other Types of Visas
The Diversity Visa (DV) program, also known as the green card lottery, offers about 55,000 immigrant visas each year. Applicants are randomly selected by computer, with millions applying every year.
This lottery is open to people from countries with historically low immigration to the U.S., giving individuals and families a chance to secure permanent residency without needing a job offer or family connections.
To apply, you must be born in a qualifying country and meet education or work experience requirements.
The application is free and available online each year from October to November.
You might also consider the employment-based immigrant visa route. Every year, 140,000 visas are available for those meeting specific qualifications.
One option is the Immigrant Investor (E5) Visa, which allows foreign nationals to invest in U.S. businesses. To qualify, you must invest at least $1 million (or $500,000 in targeted areas) and be able to create jobs.
Although this route requires significant finances, it does offer another unique opportunity to enter the U.S. legally.
Family Immigration
Family-based immigration is a way for foreign citizens to join their loved ones in the United States on a permanent basis.
To do so, you must be sponsored by a close family member who is either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), and at least 21 years old.
There are two main types of family-based immigrant visas:
- Immediate relative visas: These are for close family relationships with a U.S. citizen, like a spouse, parent, or child.
- Family preference visas: These are for more distant family relationships or certain relatives of lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
The process can be complex, depending on the visa type and whether the sponsor is a U.S. citizen or green card holder. However, with the right preparation and patience, it can ultimately help families reunite in the U.S.
The Role of Legal Aid and NGOs
Navigating the asylum process can be overwhelming, especially with all the recent changes in U.S. immigration laws. That’s why getting legal assistance can make a big difference.
Legal aid organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in supporting asylum seekers in the U.S. These groups often offer free or low-cost legal services, helping individuals with everything from filing paperwork to representing them in court.
Organizations like the UNHCR, Refugee Council USA, Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, and the American Immigration Council provide invaluable resources and guidance.
It’s also a good idea to look for local organizations in your area that offer support to individuals in similar situations as yours.
When facing such an important journey, seeking legal help can not only improve your chances of success—but also offer you peace of mind throughout the process.
uLink: Helping You Build a Better Life in the U.S.
The end of the CBP One asylum app for asylum seekers marks a move toward stricter U.S. immigration policies—and with so much uncertainty around the new Trump administration, it’s normal to feel concerned.
However, there are still legal paths to explore.
At uLink, we’re dedicated to providing clarity and support, by helping you understand your immigration options, as well as how to manage your finances in the U.S.
If you’re in the United States and are looking for a way to help loved ones back home, look no further. uLink makes it simple to send funds to those who need it most, helping bridge the gap during challenging times.
Try our secure money transfer service and take the next step in supporting your loved ones, no matter where they are. With uLink, pay less, send more.
