The path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants has never been an easy road. Immigrants arriving on American soil typically don’t understand the complexities of the immigration landscape, which is consistently evolving. Finding the information you need, when you need it, in easy to understand language can be a challenge for those looking to get their piece of the American Dream. At the same time, staying up to date on the latest facts and policies in immigration is crucial. Consider this blog your cheat sheet–a condensed version of everything you need to know about the path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
America’s Immigrant Population Today
The demographics of this nation’s immigrant population change yearly. Change is one of the only constants in illegal immigration facts. The people that made up the majority of foreign-born Americans last year differ dramatically from the majority today. America’s immigrant population can be divided into two categories: foreign-born and undocumented immigrants.
America’s Foreign-Born Population:
• 40.7 million people in 2012 were classified as foreign-born
• That number saw a significant increase from the previous decade; America’s foreign-born population is continuing to swell at a sizable rate
• The foreign-born population numbers have doubled since the 1960’s
• Today’s countries of origin for immigrants vary far more dramatically than they did a decade ago; America is now housing immigrants from nearly every country
• For the first time in immigration history, female immigrants outnumber male immigrants
• There are nearly 1 million LGBT adult immigrants living in the United States today
Undocumented Immigrant Population:
• After a slight decline in undocumented immigrants in America during the Great Depression, that number has remained fairly stable
• Mexico accounts for some of the largest numbers of undocumented immigrants in United States
• California has the largest number of undocumented immigrants living within its state
• Many undocumented immigrants are part of the same family as documented immigrants
• Almost half of the undocumented population has children under the age of 18 years
• There are almost a quarter of a million LGBT individuals within the undocumented population in the United States
• More than half of this population has a high school degree or higher. Just that quick look at current illegal immigration facts is enough to demonstrate the need for servicing this population.
Life for foreign-born individuals has become far less bleak that it used to be. More and more, foreign-born individuals are experiencing financial and political power in the United States. Individuals are increasingly seeking the help they need from lawyers for immigration and are working to become full citizens. The future is getting brighter, but the arena of immigration still leaves much to be desired for foreign-born individuals.
However, without a lawyer for immigration, it’s nearly impossible for these men and women, and their families, to understand the ever-changing facts and processes for how undocumented immigrants can become legal United States citizens. An attorney well-versed in this area of law can give you specific guidance.
If you or someone you love is wondering how undocumented immigrants can become legal citizens of the United States, don’t give up! Find an experienced, respected and dedicated immigration lawyer today, and get help in making your American dream an American reality.
