Over the years, Ecuador has become a popular starting point for many Chinese citizens embarking on a long and dangerous journey through South America, Central America, and Mexico to reach the southern border of the United States. However, this may soon change as Ecuador has announced that it will be suspending visa-free entry for Chinese citizens starting July 1. This decision has been made due to a sharp increase in irregular migration, which has become a concern for the Ecuadorian government.
The route to the United States, known as “walking the line,” has been a popular choice for many Chinese citizens seeking a better life. However, with the recent government announcement, discussions among illegal Chinese immigrants have been heated, with an estimated 80% of them entering through Ecuador.
Statistics from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol show a record high of nearly 6,000 monthly encounters with Chinese nationals at the southwestern border in December 2023. However, this number has recently started to decrease, with only 3,600 encounters reported in May. This can be attributed to the efforts of both the U.S. and Chinese governments to stem the flow of illegal migration.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that Beijing is willing to maintain dialogue and cooperation with the United States in the field of immigration enforcement, and they have also accepted the repatriation of individuals with verified Chinese nationality. In addition, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has engaged with their Chinese counterparts, and China has already begun accepting the repatriation of immigrants with no legal basis to stay in the United States.
There have recently been reports of some Chinese citizens being deported from the U.S., and this has caused concern among those still attempting to “walk the line.” According to social media influencer Teacher Li, Chinese authorities have issued documents to public prosecutors about cracking down on those who attempt to enter illegally and strengthening border control. While the authenticity of these documents cannot be verified, the Chinese Embassy did not deny their existence when asked.
In response to these reports, the spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. stated that China’s Supreme Court fulfills its duty in keeping with the law. They also reiterated China’s clear and consistent stance against all forms of illegal migration and human smuggling.
As the U.S. and China work together to combat illegal migration, Mexico has also taken steps to strengthen its border control. Increased patrols and checkpoints have resulted in more interceptions of illegal migrants. Some Chinese citizens have reported being intercepted while crossing Mexico and being sent to southern Mexico if they want to continue their journey.
Despite these challenges, some Chinese citizens remain determined to reach the United States. They have begun exploring new routes, such as flying to Cuba or Bolivia, which now allow visa-free entry for Chinese citizens. The distance from Cuba to the southernmost tip of Florida is only 150 kilometers, making it an attractive option for those seeking to enter the U.S. However, this route comes with its own risks, as demonstrated by the interception of 17 Chinese citizens who entered Key Largo, Florida, from Cuba in 2023.
Chinese dissident Li Xiaosan successfully entered the U.S. through “walking the line” in February 2023. He feels fortunate to have been able to start a new life in the U.S. and is sad for those still trying to leave China now. Li has opened a translation company in New York and has received a preliminary hearing for his political asylum application. He also has a work permit.
However, with the upcoming changes in Ecuador’s visa policy, Li believes that the chances of successfully reaching the U.S. and staying will be significantly reduced. He describes the current situation as “the door closing” and wonders how many can still make it through.
Clearly, the route to the United States through Ecuador will no longer be as accessible for Chinese citizens. As the U.S. and Chinese governments work together to combat illegal migration, it is vital for individuals to follow legal processes and not resort to dangerous and illegal means. Let us hope that with continued cooperation between nations, the issue of irregular migration can be resolved, and people can find safer and lawful ways to seek a better life.
