Illegal Immigration in the United States

Amnesty Bill

American Reactions

A recent poll found that 52 per cent of Americans do not want illegal immigrants to be granted amnesty. In contrast, 32 per cent of those polled said they support immigration amnesty. If illegal immigrants maintain a job, pay their taxes and learn English, 78 per cent of Americans would consider granting amnesty.

Illegal Immigration to the United States

Immigration to the United States becomes illegal when a person settles without prior authorization by the U.S. government, or by breaking the terms of entry. This act of remaining for an indefinite period is a violation of U.S. immigration laws.

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Illegal Immigration Facts

Fast facts on illegal immigration:

Governing American immigration law is the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Census data and other sources show that the illegal population is somewhere between 7 million and 20 million.

Between 400,000 and 700,000 illegal immigrants enter the United States each year.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the agency tasked with detaining those attempting to enter the United States illegally.

When polled, 58% of Mexicans say, "The territory of the United States' southwest rightfully belongs to Mexico."

Demographically speaking, illegal immigrants come mostly from Mexico. Mexicans currently account for some 57 per cent of all illegal immigrants. Illegal immigrants from Central and South American countries account for another 24 per cent of the total. Most come looking for better work and to join family already there.