The recent and sudden shutdown of the CBP One app—an essential tool for asylum seekers—has exposed a critical flaw in the U.S. immigration system: the idea that people can simply “do it the legal way” is unrealistic. When the public is presented with policies, programs, or tools that could provide pathways for undocumented folks, these safeguards are heavily challenged. As immigration attorneys in Chicago, we see the devastating impact of these policies on immigrant families, their loved ones, and the thinning opportunities for families to reunite.
The Reality Behind “Doing It the Legal Way”
The CBP One app, launched as part of the Biden Administration’s border management efforts, allowed individuals to submit advance information and schedule appointments for asylum processing at U.S. ports of entry. It was a step forward in an otherwise congested and outdated system that severely limits legal pathways for immigration. But when the app was suddenly shut down January 20th, all future appointments for asylum seekers were cancelled. Migrants at the border were now left without a clear way to enter legally, despite following every rule and guideline.
This closure highlights the disconnect between the notion of “just doing it the legal way” and the reality of an overburdened and often inaccessible immigration system. As we’ve seen, waiting times are lengthy, options are few, and many families struggle to reunite with loved ones or seek asylum under the current system.
CBP One app Shutdown Impact on Immigrant Families
For countless families, the app was more than a tool it was their best chance at legal entry and reunification. Many have been separated for years, waiting for the opportunity to join their spouses, parents, or children in the U.S. With the CBP One app no longer operational, these families face an uncertain future, forced to contend with a system that has no clear path forward.
The emotional toll is exhausting. Separated parents, spouses, and children are left unsure of when or how they’ll be reunited. These disruptions don’t just hurt families—they also affect immigrant workers who contribute to the economy. As workers wait in legal limbo, they are unable to bring their families over, weakening their ability to settle and fully integrate into U.S. society and the workforce.
Economic Consequences of a Broken System
Immigrant workers make up a vital part of the U.S. economy. From agriculture to healthcare, they fill essential roles across many sectors. When pathways to legal immigration are blocked—whether by app shutdowns or bureaucratic hurdles—the economy suffers. Labor shortages, reduced productivity, and disruptions in industries that rely on immigrant labor are all direct consequences of a system that makes legal entry unnecessarily difficult.
The Need for Immigration Reform
The shutdown of the CBP One app is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. The “just do it the legal way” approach oversimplifies the challenges immigrants face and ignores the systemic flaws that prevent many from having the opportunity to do so. The U.S. immigration system is outdated, inefficient, and lacks sufficient avenues for legal immigration.
Reform is not just a matter of policy—it’s about understanding the real-life consequences for families and the broader impact on the economy. As immigration lawyers, we see firsthand how the system needs to evolve to allow people to legally enter, reunite with families, and contribute to society.
At McEntee Law Group, we are committed to advocating for compassionate and effective immigration solutions. If you need help navigating the U.S. immigration system or are facing challenges with your case, contact us today at info@mcenteelaw.com.