New entry restrictions on Venezuelan migrants imposed by the Biden administration last week are not dashing the dreams of entry for many.  

Thousands of migrants waiting in limbo have traveled long distances in hopes of entering the U.S. legally.  Some remain hopeful of gaining humanitarian access, while others say they are considering seeking work in Costa Rica and elsewhere.

Washington said it would grant 24,000 Venezuelans humanitarian access to the country, but also said any caught trying to cross illegally would be expelled to Mexico.

Border towns in Texas like El Paso have stopped busing Central American migrants to northern cities, showing the impact of the expulsions. 

The expulsions fall under the controversial pandemic era Title 42 policy that was set to expire in May, but remains in effect after a federal court in Louisiana blocked the Biden administration from ending it.

More than 4,500 Venezuelans have been sent to Mexico since the new U.S. expulsion policy began on Oct. 12, the Mexican government said.Thousands of Venezuelans have been left stranded at shelters in border towns like Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, unsure of what lies ahead. Mexico’s ability to absorb the migrants is in question.

For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report.