Immigration 101
The U.S. immigration system is complex and can be difficult to understand. These resources provide key data points, historical information, and background on hot topics in immigration. Learn the basics about immigration. Immigration in the United States is complex and ever-evolving. Start here to understand the fundamental aspects of immigration policy, its history, and its impact on both individuals and the country at large. Learn commonly used terms about immigration law and how the U.S. immigration system is designed. Explore layered topics like how and whether immigrants can become citizens, as well as what individual protections look like under the law.
How the United States Immigration System Works
- How the Immigration System Works
- June 24, 2024
U.S. immigration law is very complex, and there is much confusion as to how it works. This fact sheet provides basic information…
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Birthright Citizenship in the United States
- Birthright Citizenship
- October 16, 2024
This fact sheet explains birthright citizenship, the Fourteenth Amendment, and its interpretations. Who is…
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Asylum in the United States
- Asylum
- August 27, 2014
Asylum seekers must navigate a difficult and complex process that can involve multiple government…
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Language Access Continues to Be An Important—and Contested—Part of American Life
One month after President Trump declared English as the only official language of the United States, communities across the country celebrated Language Access Month throughout April. The month emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all people—regardless of the language they speak—can access the information, services, and rights they are entitled… Read More
Recovery and Reform: An Ex-Gang Member’s Story
Congress approved a full-year continuing resolution on March 14 that will fund mass deportation while gutting domestic spending. The economic and humanitarian costs will plunge the most vulnerable communities into turmoil while stripping away essential services for all. Systemic failures will continue to spiral while children, U.S.-citizen or… Read More
In Victory for Transparency, Court Finds DOGE Must Make Records Available to the Public
Last week, a federal court in the District of Columbia found that the Department of Government Efficiency, known as “DOGE,” is subject to public oversight through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The decision is a victory for government transparency and democracy as a whole, as it requires that records… Read More
Trump’s New Registration Requirement Could Forcibly Separate Millions of Immigrant Families
Sara Hamdi was 12 years old when her parents were forced to “register” with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) because they were non-citizens from a Muslim country. She still remembers the anxiety they felt as they reported to the U.S. government. As they feared, their forced registration with ICE… Read More
While Federal Firings Focus on Immigration Processing, Funding for Immigration Enforcement Expands
In recent weeks, significant personnel reductions throughout the federal government made in the name of eliminating “waste” have caused concerns about the government’s ability to continue providing timely services. Agencies that provide immigration-related services have not been spared from these cuts, including those within the Department of Homeland Security… Read More
Texas Dream Act: Protecting Undocumented Students’ Access to Higher Education Is Economic, Educational Imperative
In 2001, Texas set a precedent by enacting House Bill 1403, commonly known as the Texas Dream Act, which grants eligible undocumented students access to in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This landmark legislation—the first of its kind in the nation—has… Read More
The Number of Immigrants in the US Increases Yearly – And That’s a Good Thing
By Karen Aho, Robin Lundh, and Anna Shepperson This year, as the Trump administration ramps up efforts to deport millions of immigrants, it’s important to understand the contributions that immigrants make to our economy and social wellbeing. The American Immigration Council’s annual analysis of the American Community Survey, which… Read More
Trump’s Registration Requirement Means Fear, Uncertainty for Millions of Americans
The Trump administration announced a policy that will require many Americans to always carry identification documents with them to prove they are not deportable. Read More
The Trump Administration’s Registration Requirement for Immigrants
In this factsheet, the American Immigration Council analyzes the Trump Administration’s Registration Requirement for Immigrants. Read More
H.R. 32 Would Empower President to Cut Essential Services in States and Cities
Efforts to penalize so-called “sanctuary cities” are back. On his first day back in office, President Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to explore denying federal funds to “sanctuary” jurisdictions and pursue… Read More
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