KP Sharma
The Trump administration’s aggressive immigration crackdown is raising concerns among Bhutanese migrants in the US, particularly those who lack proper documentation or have uncertain legal status.
Referring to immigrants as “criminal illegal aliens”, Donald Trump made immigration enforcement a centerpiece of his campaign, promising to carry out the largest deportation in US history. He made this a priority executive order on his first day in office.
Under US law, illegal immigrants are individuals who enter the country without proper travel documents, use forged travel documents, or fail to comply with visa or other entry requirements.
The crackdown which has started with the deportation flights to some countries has raised concerns among various immigrant communities, including Bhutanese since it would lead to job losses and deprive other opportunities.
Although the exact number of Bhutanese to be deported is unknown, some reports suggest that more than 100 individuals may be affected, with some speculating that the number could be higher.
Bhutanese migrants with permanent legal status are unlikely to face issues. However, those with temporary visas or other uncertain statuses could be subject to increased scrutiny.
In cities with large Bhutanese communities, such as New York, some individuals report increased immigration raids, document checks, and street patrols.
“There is checking everywhere, especially in Jackson Heights. I have to pass through Jackson Height for work and to escape inspection I once booked an uber and one time changed the metro route to avoid Jackson Height,” said a Bhutanese currently in the US
Many Bhutanese migrants now avoid social gatherings, including events at party halls and community spaces, for fear of being detained and deported.
It is learnt that the fear of arrest and deportation is spreading within the migrant community, with some individuals choosing to stay home rather than risk being apprehended.
“These concerns are particularly prevalent among those with uncertain immigration statuses, as they worry about being targeted during routine checks.”
Adding to concerns, the Department of Homeland Security has authorised immigration enforcement agencies to arrest undocumented individuals in public spaces, including churches, schools, and hospitals. These locations, previously considered safe havens, are now being monitored, making it riskier for migrants to seek essential services or support networks.
While Bhutanese migrants make up a small fraction of undocumented immigrants in the US, Trump’s policies could still have repercussions for the Bhutan.
Many Bhutanese have migrated to the US from third countries such as Australia, and Canada, seeking better opportunities.
Although the number of Bhutanese seeking the DV lottery for 2025 has slightly decreased to 269, down from 347 in 2023, it still represents a significant increase compared to previous years.
Meanwhile, sources said that no formal communication or discussion about the deportation of Bhutanese citizens has been heard so far.