Immigrants add value to America’s economy in numerous ways. They contribute to the workforce at a higher rate, and their geographic mobility helps local economies respond to worker shortages. They also increase the number of workers as compared to retirees, thereby bolstering Social Security and Medicare trust funds. In addition, children born to immigrants are upwardly mobile and can bring their skills and talents to the workforce.
The United States is built, in large part, by the energy and ingenuity of its immigrants. They continue to arrive despite perilous journeys, in which they risk imprisonment or death in some cases. They are largely motivated by economic opportunity, which is increasingly global in nature.
As a result, the country remains the most diverse economy in the world and provides unparalleled economic opportunities for its residents. This dynamic and competitive environment makes it a prime location for businesses to thrive. It is also a great place to start a new chapter of your life, whether you’re starting a family, exploring a new career path or taking the next big step in your career.
While there is a continuing debate about immigration policy in the United States, there is no doubt that it is a fundamental component of American society. The vast majority of academic research confirms that the inflow of labor from foreign countries has not reduced jobs or wages for Americans over time.
Although the current political climate is challenging for many, there are still opportunities to seek out jobs that offer a pathway to citizenship. In addition to searching job boards and speaking with friends who have already secured their status, there are online portals that are designed with the needs of immigrants in mind. These portals can help you find the best job that fits your skills and background.
Immigration has always been a critical part of the U.S. economy. Although it has fluctuated in intensity, there have been two epochal waves of migration: the Age of Mass Migration from 1880 to 1924 and the Post 1965 Wave of Immigration (Min 2002). The latter commenced with the passage of the 1965 Immigration Act, which abolished national quotas and prioritized family reunification for those seeking entry into the U.S.
In addition to bringing economic and cultural diversity to the nation, immigrants provide a significant source of manpower to key industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. In 2023, almost 48 million immigrants worked in the U.S., contributing $1.6 trillion to the national economy and $579 billion in federal, state, and local taxes.
Across the country, communities of immigrants have a reputation for warmth and hospitality. These traits are especially prevalent in areas where a large population of immigrants lives, such as California and Texas. In these states, nearly 73 percent of Cubans reside, as do 46 to 47 percent of Venezuelans and Haitians. Immigrants are a vital part of the fabric of America, and their contributions will help sustain the economy for generations to come.