Immigration is a top concern of many Americans. The United States has long been a country of immigrants, and many people who live here are the descendants of those early pioneers. However, there are many misconceptions about the term ‘immigrant’ and what it means to be one. This explainer looks at statistics on the immigrant population, their origins, places of settlement in the United States, and their pathways of arrival. It also explores different categories of migrants, including naturalized citizens, legal permanent residents (aka green-card holders), refugees and asylum seekers, and individuals with long-term nonimmigrant visas.
The most common type of migrant is the refugee, which is a person who has fled his or her home country because of dangers such as war, persecution, severe abuse, or death. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has outlined a set of principles and practical guidance on protecting the human rights of migrants in vulnerable situations.
There are many other types of migrants, such as environmental, economic, and political migrants, which can be distinguished by their motivations for moving. Economic migrants typically move from their home countries to find employment, and may do so either temporarily or permanently. Environmental migrants are individuals who move due to a change in their environment that adversely affects their livelihood and living conditions. Political migrants are individuals who move in search of better opportunities, often for a higher standard of living or to escape persecution.
The process of settling into a new country is challenging and complex, and it can be even more difficult if you don’t speak the language or are unfamiliar with the culture. However, the rewards of a successful migration can be significant. Some of the most important benefits include a lower cost of living, better job prospects, and the opportunity to learn more about a new culture and way of life.
Another important aspect of migration is establishing a network of professional contacts. Having connections in the country of your destination can help you find a job, navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and settle in more easily. This is particularly true if you seek out the guidance of professionals, such as immigration attorneys and relocation specialists.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the hiring processes of companies that you’re interested in working for. Make a list of the organizations you’d like to work for, and ask your existing network if they know anyone who works there. You can also subscribe to their career pages on LinkedIn to receive updates about vacancies, and contact hiring managers directly for informational interviews. It’s a lot of extra work, but it can pay off in the long run. And, if you do get a job with that company, your relationship with the hiring manager could open doors at other companies in the future.