The estimated population of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. stands at around ** million people. Although the number has stabilized, the United States has seen a spike in migrant encounters in the last few years, with over * million cases registered by the U.S. Border Patrol in 2023. This is a slight decrease from the previous year, when there were over *** million cases registered. Due to its proximity and shared border, Mexico remains the leading country of origin for most undocumented immigrants in the U.S., with California and Texas being home to the majority.

Immigration and political division

Despite the majority of the population having immigrant roots, the topic of immigration in the U.S. remains one of the country’s longest-standing political debates. Support among Republicans for restrictive immigration has grown alongside Democratic support for open immigration. This growing divide has deepened the polarization between the two major political parties, stifling constructive dialogue and impeding meaningful reform efforts and as a result, has led to dissatisfaction from all sides. In addition to general immigration policy, feelings toward illegal immigration in the U.S. also vary widely. For some, it's seen as a significant threat to national security, cultural identity, and economic stability. This perspective often aligns with support for stringent measures like Trump's proposed border wall and increased enforcement efforts. On the other hand, there are those who are more sympathetic toward undocumented immigrants, as demonstrated by support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Border Crossing Data provide summary statistics for inbound crossings at the U.S.-Canada and the U.S.-Mexico border at the port level. Data are available for trucks, trains, containers, buses, personal vehicles, passengers, and pedestrians. Border crossing data are collected at ports of entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The data reflect the number of vehicles, containers, passengers or pedestrians entering the United States. CBP does not collect comparable data on outbound crossings. Users seeking data on outbound counts may therefore want to review data from individual bridge operators, border state governments, or the Mexican and Canadian governments.

In the fiscal year of 2020, the United States Border Patrol apprehended 400,651 people trying to cross the Southwest border. This was a significant decrease from the previous year, when there were 851,508 apprehensions by Border Patrol at the Southwest border. This decrease is likely due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

In 2022, 696 illegal immigrants used the Albanian-Greek circular route to reach the European Union, compared with over 40,000 thirteen years earlier in 2009.

This data package includes the underlying data to replicate the charts and calculations presented in The effect of lawful crossing on unlawful crossing at the US southwest border, PIIE Working Paper 24-10.

If you use the data, please cite as: Clemens, Michael A. 2024. The effect of lawful crossing on unlawful crossing at the US southwest border. PIIE Working Paper 24-10. Washington: Peterson Institute for International Economics.

In 2023, there were 157,479 attempted border crossings of the Central Mediterranean route into the European Union via Italy and Malta, compared with 105,561 in the previous year.

The data presented in the statistical annex of this publication includes several tables containing information on illegal border-crossing. Data about the top ten nationalities at the EU external borders between 2011 and 2014 are presented in terms of illegal border-crossing by border type, clandestine entries, facilitators, illegal stay, refusals of entry, reasons for refusals of entry, document fraudsters, fraudulent documents, return decisions issued and effective returns. For several of the above-mentioned variables, the place of detection (e.g., inland, air, land, land intra-EU) is indicated too, as well as information on the country share of total reported cases and the percentage of change from the previous year. The numerical data is supplemented with charts and maps.

In the fourth quarter of 2017, the number of detections of illegal border-crossing (IBC) between Border Crossing Points at the EU’s external border was at the lowest level for a fourth quarter since 2013, and at the second-lowest level for any quarter since the EU-Turkey Statement entered into force. The 39% fall compared to Q4 2016, reflects in particular strong decreases on the Central Mediterranean and the Western Balkan routes, against which stood strong relative increases on the Western Mediterranean sea route and on the Eastern Mediterranean route.

On account of intensified activities of the Libyan Coast Guard the Central Mediterranean route registered a strong relative decrease compared to Q4 2016 (-72%) and the lowest quarterly aggregate number of illegal border-crossings since Q1 2015. The sudden uptick in launches from Tunisia (almost exclusively Tunisians), recorded already in Q3 2017, continued in Q4 2017 (3 770).

On the Eastern Mediterranean route, despite the season, the flow stayed at a high level, in fact the second-highest quarterly total since the implementation of the EU‑Turkey Statement was recorded, despite the commitment exhibited by the Turkish side to border control. In particular, the large share of Syrians observed in Q3 2017 continued. Meanwhile, at the land border the strong influx of Turkish migrants continued (making up 44% of the flow).

On the Western Mediterranean Sea route, yet another record number of detections was recorded, with a quarter that exceeded the annual total of any year in FRAN historical data before 2016. This record high occurred notwithstanding intense patrolling activities and preventions of departure by Moroccan and Algerian maritime assets. Of the 9 444 detections on both the sea and land route, 8 662 (92%) claimed to be minors. The mostly male minors from Algeria and Morocco in debriefings professed to have been sent by their families to earn a living in Europe. In contrast, on the Western Mediterranean land route, the number of illegal border crossings fell to a record low of a mere 47 detections.

On the Western Balkan route, a new subroute from Greece via Albania, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, to Croatia, has been emerging.

As regards other FRAN indicators and again in comparison to Q4 2016, the fall of the numbers of return decisions, effective returns as well as asylum applications coincides with the fall in illegal border crossings. Even though there are gaps in the data reported by Member States for clandestine entry, the decline in the numbers reported for this indicator may well be due to the difficulty to detect clandestine entries. Finally it is worth noting that detected illegal stays on exit saw moderate increases.

This report contains statistical data on illegal immigration at the eastern borders of the European Union for the period 2011–2013. The core of the overview are the countries in the European Borders Risk Analysis Network, and namely Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine, and monthly statistical data from neighbouring countries: Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania covering the year 2013. Six key indicators of illegal migration are measured: (1) detections of illegal border-crossing, (2) detections of facilitators, (3) detections of illegal stay, (4) refusals of entry; (5) detections of document fraud and (6) asylum applications. The data in the report are presented in several charts and maps.

Border Crossing Appointment System Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global border crossing appointment system market size reached USD 1.24 billion in 2024, with a robust year-on-year growth rate. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 12.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of USD 3.65 billion by 2033. This upward trajectory is primarily driven by the increasing need for efficient, secure, and technology-driven solutions to manage growing cross-border traffic, heightened security threats, and the rising adoption of digital transformation initiatives by governments and customs authorities worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors fueling the border crossing appointment system market is the surge in cross-border trade and travel. As global commerce and tourism continue to rebound post-pandemic, border checkpoints are experiencing unprecedented volumes of people and cargo. Traditional manual processing methods have proven inadequate in handling these surges, often resulting in congestion, delays, and inefficiencies. Border crossing appointment systems, utilizing advanced scheduling and predictive analytics, enable authorities to better manage flows, optimize resource allocation, and reduce wait times. The demand for such systems is further amplified by the increasing integration of automated kiosks, biometric verification, and real-time data sharing, which collectively enhance both security and throughput at border checkpoints.

Another significant growth driver is the escalating requirement for enhanced border security and compliance with international regulations. Governments and customs agencies are under mounting pressure to prevent illegal immigration, smuggling, and trafficking, while also facilitating legitimate trade and travel. Border crossing appointment systems provide a robust framework for pre-screening, identity verification, and risk assessment, allowing for more targeted inspections and improved compliance with global security standards such as the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework. The integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain technologies into these systems is further strengthening their capability to detect anomalies, authenticate travelers, and ensure data integrity. This technological evolution is compelling both developed and developing economies to invest in modernizing their border management infrastructure.

The ongoing digital transformation initiatives across public sector agencies also play a pivotal role in market expansion. As governments strive to deliver citizen-centric services and improve operational efficiency, the adoption of cloud-based and mobile-enabled border crossing appointment systems is accelerating. These platforms offer scalability, real-time access, and seamless integration with other government databases and transportation management systems. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a catalyst, highlighting the necessity for contactless, automated, and remotely accessible solutions to minimize physical interactions and enhance public safety. As a result, the market is witnessing increased investments in research, development, and deployment of next-generation border management solutions.

Regionally, North America continues to dominate the border crossing appointment system market, driven by substantial investments in smart border infrastructure, a high volume of cross-border movement, and strong regulatory frameworks. Europe follows closely, propelled by the Schengen Agreement and the need for coordinated border management among member states. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, fueled by expanding international trade corridors, infrastructure modernization projects, and rising adoption of digital technologies by customs authorities. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, albeit from a lower base, as governments in these regions increasingly recognize the benefits of advanced border management systems in facilitating economic growth and enhancing security.

Border Wall Sensor Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global border wall sensor market size stands at USD 1.6 billion in 2024. The market is experiencing robust growth, with a recorded Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the market is anticipated to reach a value of USD 3.3 billion. This surge is primarily driven by escalating security concerns, increased cross-border threats, and the rapid adoption of advanced sensor technologies for effective border management and surveillance operations.

The growth trajectory of the border wall sensor market is underpinned by the rising frequency of illegal border crossings, smuggling activities, and geopolitical tensions across several regions. Governments worldwide are heavily investing in the modernization of border security infrastructure, integrating smart sensors to enhance real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities. The proliferation of sophisticated sensor systems, such as seismic, infrared, and fiber optic sensors, is further catalyzing market expansion. These technologies enable authorities to detect, classify, and respond to potential threats with increased accuracy and reduced false alarms, thereby strengthening perimeter security. Additionally, technological advancements in sensor networks, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are transforming traditional border surveillance into highly automated and efficient systems.

Another significant growth factor is the global trend toward digitalization and automation in security operations. The integration of border wall sensors with centralized command centers and networked surveillance platforms allows for seamless data sharing and actionable intelligence. This interconnected ecosystem enhances situational awareness and operational efficiency, making it possible to cover vast and challenging terrains that were previously difficult to secure. Moreover, the growing adoption of hybrid and wireless sensor technologies is reducing the need for extensive physical infrastructure, lowering installation costs, and enabling flexible deployment in remote or harsh environments. These factors collectively contribute to the sustained growth of the border wall sensor market.

Public and private sector collaborations are also playing a pivotal role in market development. Governments are increasingly partnering with technology providers and defense contractors to deploy integrated border security solutions. Such partnerships are fostering innovation and accelerating the deployment of next-generation sensor technologies. Furthermore, favorable government policies, increased funding for homeland security, and international initiatives aimed at curbing illegal migration and transnational crime are providing a conducive environment for market expansion. As a result, the border wall sensor market is poised for continued growth, driven by the imperative to safeguard national sovereignty and public safety.

From a regional standpoint, North America holds the largest share of the border wall sensor market, owing to substantial investments in border security infrastructure along the US-Mexico border. Europe and Asia Pacific are also witnessing significant growth, fueled by rising security threats and the need for advanced surveillance solutions. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America regions are emerging as lucrative markets, driven by increasing border-related security challenges and the adoption of modern sensor technologies. Regional market dynamics are influenced by factors such as government spending, technological readiness, and the evolving threat landscape, which collectively shape the demand for border wall sensors across the globe.

Sensor Type Analysis

The border wall sensor market is segmented by sensor type into seismic sensors, infrared sensors, microwave sensors, fiber optic sensors, radar sensors, and others. Seismic sensors have gained prominence due to their ability to detect ground vibrations caused by human movement, vehicles, or tunneling activities. These sensors are widely deployed in border regions prone to illegal crossings and tunneling attempts, providing early warning and real-time alerts to security personnel. The adoption of seismic sensors is further bolstered by their reliability in harsh environmental conditions and their capability to cover extensive border stretches with minimal maintenance. The ongoing innovation in sei

The Eastern Partnership Risk Analysis Network (EaP-RAN) performs monthly exchanges of statistical data and information on the most recent irregular migration trends. This information is compiled at the level of the Frontex Risk Analysis Unit (RAU) and analysed in cooperation with the regional partners on a quarterly and annual basis. The annual reports offer a more in-depth analysis of the occurring developments and phenomena which impact the regional and common borders while the quarterly reports are meant to provide regular updates and identify emerging trends in order to maintain situational awareness. Both types of reports are aimed at offering support for strategic and operational decision making.

The Eastern Partnership Quarterly statistical overview is focused on quarterly developments for the seven key indicators of irregular migration: (1) detections of illegal border-crossing between BCPs; (2) detections of illegal border-crossing at BCPs; (3) refusals of entry; (4) detections of illegal stay; (5) asylum applications; (6) detections of facilitators; and (7) detections of fraudulent documents.

The backbone of this overview are monthly statistics provided within the framework of the EaP-RAN (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine) and reference period statistics from common border sections of the neighbouring EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries (Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania). The data are processed, checked for errors and merged into an Excel database for further analysis.

Automated Border Control Solution Market Outlook

The global automated border control solution market size was valued at approximately USD 1.5 billion in 2023, and it is expected to reach around USD 5.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.8% during the forecast period. The surge in demand for these solutions is driven by increasing international travel, stringent security measures, and technological advancements in biometric systems.

One major growth factor fueling the automated border control solution market is the increasing volume of international travel. As globalization progresses, the need for efficient yet secure border control systems becomes paramount. Automated systems like biometric verification not only expedite the border crossing process but also enhance security, making them an attractive option for governments and private operators. The rise in international tourism, as well as business travel, has put a significant strain on traditional manual border control methods, necessitating the adoption of automated solutions to manage the flow of people efficiently.

Technological advancements are another critical driver of this market. The integration of sophisticated technologies such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris recognition into automated border control systems has significantly improved their accuracy and reliability. These technologies offer faster processing times and higher levels of security compared to manual checks. Moreover, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are further enhancing the capabilities of these systems, allowing for real-time data analysis and threat detection.

Government regulations and policies are also playing a crucial role in the growth of the automated border control solution market. Increasing concerns about national security, terrorism, and illegal immigration have prompted governments worldwide to invest in advanced border control technologies. Policies mandating the use of biometric data for border security are becoming more prevalent, further driving the demand for automated solutions. Additionally, international collaborations and agreements are also fostering the adoption of these systems, as countries aim to streamline border control processes and enhance security.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe are leading the market in terms of adoption and implementation of automated border control solutions. These regions have well-established infrastructures and are early adopters of advanced technologies, which positions them at the forefront of the market. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by increasing investments in infrastructure development and a rising number of international travelers. The Middle East and Africa, and Latin America are also expected to contribute significantly to the market growth, albeit at a slower pace compared to other regions.

Component Analysis

The automated border control solution market is segmented into hardware, software, and services. Hardware components are integral to the functioning of automated border control systems, including biometric scanners, cameras, and e-gates. These hardware elements are crucial for capturing and verifying biometric data such as fingerprints, facial features, and iris patterns. The demand for robust and reliable hardware solutions is driving significant investments in research and development. Companies are continually innovating to enhance the durability, accuracy, and speed of these components, ensuring they can handle high volumes of traffic efficiently.

Software components play an equally important role in the automated border control ecosystem. These include the algorithms and platforms responsible for processing biometric data, managing user databases, and integrating with other security systems. The software segment is witnessing rapid growth due to advancements in AI and ML, which are enhancing the capabilities of border control systems. These technologies enable real-time data analysis, threat detection, and decision-making, making border crossings safer and more efficient. Additionally, software updates and cybersecurity measures are critical for maintaining the integrity and security of border control systems.

Services encompass the installation, maintenance, and ongoing support required for automated border control systems. As these solutions become more sophisticated, the need for specialized services is increasing. Governments

The Asia-Pacific border security market, valued at $12.52 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, rising cross-border crime, and increasing concerns over illegal immigration and terrorism. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.21% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant market expansion, reaching an estimated $36.5 billion by 2033. Key growth drivers include substantial investments in advanced surveillance technologies, such as radar systems, CCTV cameras, and biometric identification solutions, coupled with the increasing adoption of integrated border management systems. Furthermore, the region's diverse geographical landscape and extensive coastlines necessitate sophisticated border security solutions, further fueling market expansion. While challenges remain, such as high initial investment costs for advanced technologies and the need for skilled personnel to operate and maintain these systems, the overarching security concerns are expected to outweigh these limitations, ensuring continued market growth. The market segmentation reveals significant opportunities across various aspects of border security. Production analysis indicates a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing capabilities within several key nations in the region, particularly China, India, and South Korea. Consumption analysis highlights a high demand for integrated systems, reflecting a shift towards holistic border management strategies. Import and export analyses suggest a dynamic interplay between regional production and global supply chains, with certain specialized technologies still heavily reliant on imports. Price trend analysis points to a gradual decrease in the cost of some components due to technological advancements and increased competition, making border security solutions more accessible to developing nations. Leading companies such as China Electronics Technology Group Corporation, Furuno Electric Co Ltd, and Bharat Electronics Limited are strategically positioned to benefit from this growth, leveraging their expertise and established presence within the Asia-Pacific region. The continued focus on technological innovation, alongside robust government spending on national security, will be key determinants of the market's trajectory in the years to come. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Asia-Pacific border security market, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. With a base year of 2025 and an estimated year of 2025, this report offers invaluable insights into market trends, growth drivers, challenges, and future forecasts, enabling businesses to make informed strategic decisions. The study period (2019-2033), historical period (2019-2024), and forecast period (2025-2033) ensure a thorough understanding of the market's evolution and potential. The report is meticulously segmented by production analysis, consumption analysis, import and export market analysis (value & volume), price trend analysis, and industry developments. Key players like China Electronics Technology Group Corporation, Furuno Electric Co Ltd, Bharat Electronics Limited, Blighter Surveillance Systems Ltd, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Teledyne FLIR LLC, OSI Systems Inc, Defence Research and Development Organization, BAE Systems plc, and The Boeing Company are profiled, offering a granular view of the competitive landscape. This report is essential for anyone involved in border security technologies, government agencies, and market analysts. The market is projected to reach billions of dollars in value by 2033. Recent developments include: October 2023: India announced its plans to acquire over 100 “integrated surveillance and targeting systems” for border patrol troops. As per sources, the Indian Army requires around 600 such systems, however, at the first stage, 118 such systems are being procured with 60 percent indigenous content. Each surveillance-cum-tracking system consists of a drone, an operator control unit that can be integrated into a tank or infantry combat vehicle, loitering munitions, and five other components., November 2022: The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) procured two SUV-mounted jammers, 100 drones, and over 1,400 hand-held thermal imagers for surveillance and security activities along important Indian frontiers with Pakistan and Bangladesh., October 2022: The Indian Army announced its plans to procure 750 remotely piloted aerial vehicles (drones) and complete accessories to bolster the surveillance system on the northern border. The newly acquired UAVs would be used by special forces for surveillance within a 5-km radius to execute pin-point precision strikes during raids.. Key drivers for this market are: Increase in Internet of Things (IoT) and Autonomous Systems, Rise in Demand for Military and Defense Satellite Communication Solutions. Potential restraints include: Cybersecurity Threats to Satellite Communication, Interference in Transmission of Data. Notable trends are: Sea Segment is Estimated to Show Significant Growth During the Forecast Period.

Integrated Border-Management System Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global integrated border-management system market size reached USD 8.9 billion in 2024, with a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2% observed over the past year. The sector’s expansion is fueled by a surge in cross-border threats, technological advancements, and increasing investments by governments worldwide in border security infrastructure. By leveraging this CAGR, the market is forecasted to reach approximately USD 26.5 billion by 2033. As per our comprehensive industry analysis, the growing need for sophisticated and multi-layered security solutions is driving the rapid adoption of integrated border-management systems across various regions.

The primary growth driver for the integrated border-management system market is the escalating frequency and sophistication of cross-border threats, including illegal immigration, trafficking, and terrorism. Governments are increasingly recognizing the necessity of deploying advanced, integrated solutions that combine hardware, software, and services to secure border points effectively. The integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time data analytics within these systems enables proactive threat detection and response, greatly enhancing the efficacy of border management operations. Furthermore, the rise in international trade and travel necessitates seamless yet secure border crossings, compelling authorities to adopt systems that balance security with operational efficiency.

Another significant factor propelling the market is the ongoing evolution of biometric and surveillance technologies. Modern integrated border-management systems are leveraging cutting-edge biometric systems, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, to authenticate identities quickly and accurately. The integration of high-definition surveillance cameras, drones, and advanced communication networks further strengthens situational awareness at border checkpoints. These technological advancements not only improve the detection of illicit activities but also streamline border control processes, reducing wait times and enhancing the traveler experience. As a result, both developed and developing nations are ramping up investments in upgrading their border security infrastructure.

The increasing adoption of cloud-based deployment models is also a notable catalyst for growth in the integrated border-management system market. Cloud-based solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, making them particularly attractive for governments with limited IT infrastructure. These systems enable centralized data management, real-time information sharing, and remote monitoring, which are critical for efficient border operations. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of border management, prompting authorities to invest in contactless and automated solutions that minimize physical interaction while maintaining high security standards.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe currently lead the integrated border-management system market, driven by substantial government spending and the presence of major technology providers. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, with countries like China, India, and Australia making significant investments in border security modernization. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also witnessing increased adoption, albeit at a slower pace, due to rising security concerns and the need to curb illegal cross-border activities. Overall, the global market is characterized by a dynamic landscape, with regional governments prioritizing security, efficiency, and technological innovation in their border management strategies.

Component Analysis

The integrated border-management system market by component is segmented into hardware, software, and services, each playing a pivotal role in the

Border Crossing Biometric eGates Upgrades Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Border Crossing Biometric eGates Upgrades market size in 2024 stands at USD 2.14 billion, reflecting the rapid adoption of advanced biometric technologies in border security worldwide. The market is experiencing robust momentum, with a projected CAGR of 13.8% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the market is forecasted to reach USD 6.25 billion, driven by escalating security concerns, increased international travel, and growing government investments in automated border control infrastructures. As per our latest research, the primary growth factor is the urgent need for more secure, efficient, and contactless border processing solutions in the post-pandemic world, which is accelerating the upgrade and deployment of biometric eGates at border crossings globally.

One of the most significant growth factors propelling the Border Crossing Biometric eGates Upgrades market is the heightened focus on national security and the prevention of illegal immigration and cross-border crime. Governments across the globe are increasingly prioritizing the modernization of border control systems to address evolving security threats. The integration of advanced biometric technologies such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris recognition into eGates provides a robust, multi-layered security framework that is far more effective than traditional manual checks. These systems enable authorities to verify identities rapidly and accurately, reducing the risk of identity fraud and unauthorized entry. Additionally, the growing sophistication of global criminal networks and the need for real-time data sharing between international agencies further drive the demand for upgraded biometric eGates at critical border points.

Another crucial factor contributing to the market’s expansion is the surge in international passenger traffic, particularly at airports, seaports, and major land border crossings. As global travel rebounds post-pandemic, there is mounting pressure on border authorities to balance stringent security requirements with the need for seamless passenger experiences. Automated biometric eGates streamline the immigration process by enabling rapid, contactless identity verification, significantly reducing wait times and congestion at border checkpoints. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also improves traveler satisfaction, making biometric eGates an attractive investment for governments and transportation authorities alike. The integration of multi-modal biometrics further augments accuracy and reliability, ensuring that border security does not come at the expense of convenience.

The ongoing digital transformation of border management systems is also a key driver for the Border Crossing Biometric eGates Upgrades market. Governments are increasingly investing in smart border solutions that leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics to enhance situational awareness and decision-making at border crossings. The adoption of cloud-based software platforms and interoperable biometric databases allows for more flexible, scalable, and future-proof eGate solutions. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards contactless and hygienic border processing methods, with biometric eGates emerging as a preferred solution for minimizing physical interaction and mitigating health risks. As a result, the demand for hardware, software, and services related to biometric eGate upgrades continues to grow across all regions.

Regionally, Europe and Asia Pacific are leading the adoption of biometric eGates at border crossings, supported by substantial government funding and progressive regulatory frameworks. North America follows closely, with the United States and Canada investing heavily in next-generation border security infrastructure. Meanwhile, emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually ramping up their investments, driven by increasing cross-border movement and the need to combat security threats. While the pace of adoption varies, the global trend is unmistakably towards the widespread deployment and continuous upgrading of biometric eGate systems, positioning the market for sustained growth over the next decade.

Component Analysis

The Border Crossing Biometric eGates Upgrades market is segmented by component into hardware, software,

EB-RAN statistical data from Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine are available for the period 2010–2014. The core of the overview are EB-RAN and monthly statistical data of neighbouring FRAN members: Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania (only common borders, or borders with the Russian Federation) covering the year 2014. There are five key indicators of irregular migration: (1) detections of illegal border-crossing; (2) detections of facilitators; (3) detections of illegal stay; (4) refusals of entry; and (5) asylum applications.

Data Sharing Gateways for Borders Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market size reached USD 2.47 billion in 2024, reflecting robust adoption across border management and security operations worldwide. The market is expected to maintain a strong growth trajectory, registering a CAGR of 13.2% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market is projected to attain a value of USD 7.12 billion. This impressive growth is primarily fueled by increasing cross-border trade, tightening security protocols, and the rapid digitalization of border management systems.

The primary growth driver for the Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market is the escalating demand for real-time, secure, and interoperable data exchange between multiple border agencies and international stakeholders. As global mobility and trade volumes continue to rise, governments and agencies are under mounting pressure to streamline border processes while ensuring robust security. Data sharing gateways enable seamless integration of disparate IT systems, allowing for efficient exchange of information related to customs, immigration, and security checks. The increasing sophistication of border threats, such as smuggling, trafficking, and illegal immigration, further necessitates advanced data sharing solutions that can support rapid decision-making and threat detection across national boundaries. The convergence of AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies within these gateways is also amplifying their capabilities, driving greater adoption among border control authorities.

Another significant factor propelling the Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market is the growing emphasis on trade facilitation and compliance with international standards. In an era where cross-border e-commerce and global logistics are witnessing exponential growth, efficient data sharing is crucial for reducing bottlenecks, minimizing delays, and ensuring compliance with trade regulations. Initiatives such as the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework and various regional trade agreements are pushing nations to modernize their border management infrastructure. Data sharing gateways play a pivotal role in harmonizing data formats, automating document verification, and enabling pre-arrival risk assessments, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and transparency of border operations. This is particularly relevant as countries look to recover from the economic disruptions caused by global events and strive to create more resilient and agile supply chains.

The increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions and the integration of advanced analytics are further accelerating the growth of the Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market. Cloud deployment models offer scalability, cost-effectiveness, and easier maintenance, making them attractive to both developed and developing economies. Moreover, the integration of AI-powered analytics within data sharing gateways is enabling predictive modeling, anomaly detection, and real-time monitoring, which are critical for proactive border management. The need to comply with stringent data privacy and security regulations, such as GDPR and other regional frameworks, is also driving innovation in encryption and access control mechanisms within these gateways. As digital transformation initiatives gain momentum in public sector agencies worldwide, the demand for sophisticated data sharing solutions at border points is expected to surge.

From a regional perspective, North America currently dominates the Data Sharing Gateways for Borders market, driven by significant investments in border security, advanced technology infrastructure, and a strong focus on counter-terrorism. However, the Asia Pacific region is poised for the fastest growth, fueled by rapid urbanization, expanding cross-border trade, and increasing government spending on digital border management systems. Europe also holds a substantial share, owing to the Schengen Agreement and ongoing modernization of customs and immigration processes. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging as promising markets, supported by regional integration initiatives and growing awareness about the benefits of data-driven border management. This regional diversification underscores the global importance of data sharing gateways in enhancing border security and facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Automated Border Control market size is USD 989.81 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of the Automated Border Control Market:

Key Driver for Automated Border Control Market

Efficiency and Cost Savings to Increase the Demand Globally 

One key driver in the Automated Border Control market is efficiency and cost saving. Automated border control solutions offer significant efficiency gains and cost savings for border management agencies. By automating routine immigration and customs procedures, these systems reduce processing times, alleviate congestion at border checkpoints, and enable border authorities to allocate resources more effectively. The resulting operational efficiencies lead to cost savings for governments while improving the overall traveler experience, driving demand for automated border control solutions globally. Enhanced Security Measures- Automated systems equipped with biometric authentication and advanced identity verification technologies enhance security by accurately identifying travelers, detecting fraudulent documents, and flagging potential security threats in real time, thereby bolstering national security and border protection efforts.

Key Restraint for Automated Border Control Market

High Initial Investment Costs may hamper the market growth

The implementation of automated border control systems involves substantial upfront investment in infrastructure, technology, and personnel training, which can be a significant barrier for many governments and border authorities. Privacy and Data Security Concerns- Automated border control systems collect and store vast amounts of biometric and personal data, raising concerns about privacy infringement and the potential for data breaches, necessitating stringent security measures and regulatory compliance.

Opportunity for the Automated Border Control Market

Digital ID verification systems will further provide an opportunity for the market

Automated border control systems (ABC) or eGates are automated self-service barriers that use data stored in a chip in biometric passports with a photo or fingerprint taken at the time of entering the eGates to verify the passport holder's identity. For instance, in 2025, Armenia moved forward with a major upgrade of the national identity infrastructure by selecting French technology company IDEMIA and its partner A.C.I. A new biometric identification system is developed by these companies. Full deployment of the system will be targeted for the second half of 2026 with operational rollout beginning in March of the year. The project aims to modernize Armenia’s identity management capabilities. It brings them in line with European and international security standards. Therefore, digital ID verification systems will further provide an opportunity for the market. Introduction of the Automated Border Control Market

The automated border control market represents a pivotal intersection of technology and border security, revolutionizing the way nations manage immigration and customs processes. Leveraging advanced biometric authentication, artificial intelligence, and automated document verification systems, automated border control solutions streamline border crossings, enhancing both security and efficiency. These systems enable travelers to undergo self-service immigration and customs procedures, reducing waiting times and improving the overall travel experience. Governments worldwide are increasingly investing in automated border control solutions to strengthen border security, combat illegal immigration, and facilitate lawful travel. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of touchless and contactless technologies in border control processes, further driving the market growth. As global travel continues to expand, the automated border control market is poised for significant expansion, offering robust solutions to meet the evolving needs of border management agencies and travelers alike.