A growing number of Indian migrants have taken social media by storm with videos of their daring — and repeated — attempts to illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border.
Popular Instagram and YouTube channels, including Kaatiya Brothers USA and America Return US, show Indian men trekking through South America, navigating Panama’s perilous Darien Gap, and even spending time in ICE detention centers — only to be deported and try again.
These content creators, mostly from Punjab and Haryana, document their journey like an adventure vlog, showing jungle hikes, bus rides, and even immigration paperwork. Some even ask for payment before granting interviews.
Immigration policy analyst Gil Guerra explained that many of these migrants are financially able to pay smugglers due to land sales back home but lack the education or qualifications for legal U.S. migration. Many are Sikh, with hopes of joining truck driving networks in the U.S.
In 2024 alone, over 25,000 Indian nationals were caught crossing the U.S. southwest border. But recent enforcement under President Trump has drastically reduced these numbers, with just 28 apprehensions recorded so far this year.
Despite the tough crackdown, the romanticism of the American dream — and the promise of a better life — continues to lure many, especially younger men, to risk the journey. Some genuinely seek asylum due to political and religious persecution, while others are influenced by viral videos that downplay the risks.
CBP warns: “Illegal entry means swift deportation.” Yet, with over 1,000 Indian migrants deported this year alone, the trend shows no sign of slowing.
