Unauthorized immigrants in the United States enter the country through a variety of methods. Here’s a breakdown of the primary ways people come into the country without proper documentation:
1. Visa Overstays (Approximately 40-50%)
- Description: Many unauthorized immigrants enter the U.S. legally with a visa (e.g., tourist, student, or work visa) but remain in the country after the visa expires.
- Trends: Overstays have become a leading source of unauthorized immigration due to improvements in border security reducing illegal crossings.
2. Border Crossings Without Inspection (Approximately 50-60%)
- Description: This includes individuals who cross the U.S.-Mexico border or, to a lesser extent, the U.S.-Canada border, outside designated ports of entry.
- Trends: This category used to account for the majority of unauthorized immigrants, but its share has decreased over the years. Border security enhancements, such as barriers and surveillance, have made crossings more challenging.
3. Fraudulent Entry (Small Percentage)
- Description: Some individuals use fraudulent documents, misrepresentations, or other deceptive means to gain entry at official ports of entry.
- Examples: Using a fake visa or passport.
4. Human Smuggling or Trafficking (Small Percentage)
- Description: People may rely on smuggling networks to facilitate their entry into the U.S., sometimes under coercive or exploitative conditions.
- Trends: This often overlaps with other methods, particularly unauthorized border crossings.
5. Failure to Depart After Legal Entry Without a Visa (Small Percentage)
- Description: Citizens from countries in the Visa Waiver Program may enter the U.S. legally without a visa but remain after their authorized stay expires.
PSE Guide 