Unauthorized Immigration/Irregular Migration
Explore all research, analysis, commentary, and data on unauthorized immigrants and irregular migrants, terms used in different parts of the world to describe the individuals who lack the right to reside legally in their country of destination, as well as the policies and enforcement practices affecting them.
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U.S. Legal Pathways for Mexican and Central American Immigrants, by the Numbers
Family ties, H-2 seasonal work visas, and humanitarian parole are the main U.S. legal pathways for Mexican and Central American immigrants.
Managing International Protection Needs at Borders
Amid rising mixed migration flows, managing international protection needs at borders requires differentiated screening, flexible surge capacity, interagency coordination, and proactive investment.
Diverse Flows Drive Increase in U.S. Unauthorized Immigrant Population
MPI estimates 11.3 million unauthorized immigrants lived in the United States as of mid-2022, up from 11.2 million a year earlier. While the country has witnessed high levels of arrivals at the U.S.-Mexico border, the unauthorized population also has been marked by significant ongoing declines in the unauthorized from Mexico and other exits, as this analysis explains.
The Door Opens for a New Chapter in European Cooperation on Migration
New leadership in London and in European capitals, alongside continuity at the European Commission, could offer a window for greater European cohesion and creativity on immigration policy. This MPI Europe commentary explores the opportunities for greater UK-EU cooperation on migration and asylum if both sides smartly rekindle their relationship and prioritize strategic engagement.
Comparing the Biden and Trump Deportation Records
Despite an enforcement record that has surpassed that of the first Trump term, the Biden administration has relied heavily on border returns over interior removals.
A Small Country with a Huge Diaspora, Ireland Navigates Its New Status as an Immigration Hub
Ireland has rapidly shifted from a country of mass emigration to immigrant destination, but higher asylum arrivals, a housing crisis, and far-right pressure are testing its traditionally open posture.
Building on Regular Pathways to Address Migration Pressures in the Americas
Despite a rich history of regular immigration pathways, the Americas still struggle with irregular migration. Hemispheric cooperation and reformed mobility agreements are needed.
Construyendo vías regulares para abordar presiones migratorias en el hemisferio occidental
A pesar de una rica historia de vías regulares, el hemisferio sigue luchando con la migración irregular. Se necesitan cooperación hemisférica y acuerdos reformados.
Rocking the (Small) Boat: Novel Options to Tackle Irregular Migration to the United Kingdom
With UK voters headed to the polls on July 4, one thing is clear: Whatever party wins the election will face the ongoing challenges of addressing irregular arrivals by boat and growing asylum claims. But this could also be an opportunity for novel policy approaches and collaboration with international partners in Europe and beyond, this commentary argues.
Mexico at a Crossroads Once More: Emigration Levels Off as Transit Migration and Immigration Rise
Mexico's role is shifting as the country becomes a major transit country; remittances are increasing as is authorities’ detention of migrants.
