North America

Immigrant Legalization in the United States and European Union: Policy Goals and Program Design

Since the 1980s, legalization has given legal status to 3.5 million U.S. and 5 million EU immigrants; inclusive program designs prove more cost effective than restrictive ones.

More than IRCA: U.S. Legalization Programs and the Current Policy Debate

A century of U.S. registry and population‑specific legalization programs shows that the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) was just one piece of the puzzle.

Top Languages Spoken by English Language Learners Nationally and by State, 2009

A 2009 analysis of Census data finds U.S. English Learner students speak more than 150 languages, with Spanish dominant nationally and in 28 states.

Updated Estimates of the 2010 DREAM Act

Of 1.9 million potential beneficiaries under the 2010 DREAM Act, about 755,000 would be likely to meet the requirements for permanent status.

Diasporas: New Partners in Global Development Policy

Over the past year, MPI has partnered with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to examine how diasporas contribute to – or detract from - development efforts in their countries of origin. MPI and USAID have published an edited volume of the research. Please join us for the release of the book where speakers will discuss new thinking on the role of diaspora engagement in U.S. foreign and development policy.

Elections Alter the Political Landscape for Immigration Policy Debate

The 2010 Republican midterm sweep stalled federal immigration reform and pointed to a state enforcement wave, even as Hispanic voters proved decisive in key Democratic wins.

Immigration Enforcement in the United States

U.S. immigration apprehensions fell in 2009, yet removals hit a ten-year high.

Hazleton and Beyond: Why Communities Try to Restrict Immigration

Rapid immigrant growth was a key predictor of local restrictive immigration measures in the United States.

Prioritizing Integration

Structuring and Implementing an Immigrant Legalization Program: Registration as the First Step

An initial registration phase is central to successful legalization, allowing authorities to identify applicants and manage risks at scale.