Immigration 101
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…
Read MoreBirthright Citizenship in the United States
- Birthright Citizenship
- July 9, 2026
This fact sheet explains birthright citizenship, the Fourteenth Amendment, and its interpretations. Who is…
Read MoreAsylum in the United States
- Asylum
- August 27, 2014
Asylum seekers must navigate a difficult and complex process that can involve multiple government…
Read MoreWithout DACA, Gifted Linguist Faces Deportation Instead of Law School
When Santiago Tobar Potes was brought to the United States at age 3, he spoke only Spanish. Now 20 and a student at Columbia University, he has become a gifted linguist, teaching himself English, French, Portuguese, Italian, Haitian Creole, and Chinese, and now working on Arabic and Russian. He wants… Read More
KIMA TV: Yakima Valley’s economy could take a hit if immigrants are forced to leave in March
$1.65 billion dollars. That’s how much Yakima County made in 2014 from all its crop sales. Which such a large amount of money, it’s easy to see that agriculture is one of the driving forces of the county’s economy. That includes the valley’s famous apples and cherries. Luz Bazen Gutierrez… Read More
The Philadelphia Inquirer: New Pa. coalition: The economy needs immigrants
A statewide pro-immigration coalition stepped into existence on Wednesday morning, announcing itself hours before thousands of protesters prepared to converge on Washington to demand a permanent solution for young people whose DACA protection is ending. Congress has until March to find a solution, after President Trump rescinded the Deferred Action… Read More
Kansas City Star: Chamber report proves immigrants’ contribution
Ricardo Quinones was six months old when his family left Mexico for the United States. Today, he uses his college degree in psychology as a “behavioral implementer” — focusing on the well-being and care of his clients, who suffer from intense behavioral issues. The overall goal is to decrease unwanted… Read More
America's story is an immigrant story.