Facts About Immigration

The United States has long had a history of immigration. In fact, aside from those who descend from the Native American population, everyone in the United States is the descendant of an immigrant. However, while nearly everyone descends from immigrants, not all immigrants gained entry to the United States.

• It has been estimated that between 250,000 to 300,000 illegal immigrants enter the United States each year.


• A person is considered an illegal immigrant if they entered the US unlawfully or if they have overstayed their visa.


• It has been estimated that around 7,200 refugees and immigrants enter the United States each day. Of the 7,200 only around 2,200 are legal with the remaining 5,000 being compromised of illegal entries. Of the 5,000, nearly 4,000 are caught by US border patrol.


• Those who immigrate to the United States are more likely to be self-employed than those who are natural-born citizens.


• Foreign born, adult naturalized citizens tend to have a greater adjusted gross income than US born citizens.


• Around 10 percent of the population of the US is made up of foreign-born individuals.


• The green card is a permanent resident card which allows the owner to live and work in the US indefinitely. The green card must be renewed every 10 years.


• There are two different visitor visas that can be obtained for those wishing to visit the United States. These are the B-1 visa, which is used for business, and the B-2 visa, which is used for pleasure.


• In order to become a citizen of the United States one must possess a basic knowledge of US government and history.