This information is valid as of June 23rd, 2021

The U.S. and Canadian governments are making changes to rules at the border, and more people are allowed to enter Canada. However, at this time, the US-Canada border remains closed for most asylum seekers - this includes official ports of entry and unofficial crossings such as Roxham Road in Champlain, NY. If you wish to travel to Canada to apply for asylum, you should talk to a qualified Canadian refugee lawyer or support organization first.

If you attempt to cross the border and are not eligible to cross, you will be directed back by Canadian authorities, and there is a real risk that you will be detained and placed in removal proceedings by U.S. authorities.

People who can prove they meet an exception to the Safe Third Country Agreement will be permitted to enter at official ports of entry. If you think you might be eligible under the Safe Third Country Agreement, you should still seek legal advice before going to an official port of entry.

For up-to-date information about conditions at the border and who can enter Canada:

Bridges not Borders/ Créons des ponts - http://www.bridgesnotborders.ca/info-1.html

UNHCR Canada - https://www.unhcr.ca/in-canada/making-refugee-claim/

New York Office for New Americans - 1-800-566-7636

Information and resources for asylum seekers:

About the refugee process in Canada -   https://www.unhcr.ca/in-canada/making-refugee-claim/

Exceptions to the Safe Third Country Agreement - https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/refugee-protection/canada/processing-claims-protection-safe-third-country-agreement.html