Migration to the USA: statistics and reasons

2024 Author: Henry Conors | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-12 02:41

Migration is a concept that can be heard very often on television and in various media. What does it mean? What are the features of migration to the USA and what reasons push people to move to this country? Consider the features of this process in more detail.

General concept of migration

If we talk about the general concept of this term, then migration is the movement of various segments of the population. As a rule, it is carried out from one state to another.

In the modern world, statistics clearly demonstrate that residents of many countries tend to migrate to the United States. What is it connected with? First of all, people understand that the USA is an excellent platform for a successful start in business. In addition, ordinary citizens of states with different levels of economic development have long noticed that it is very easy to get settled in this country. In accordance with the statistics, literally in the first six months, a migrant finds an occupation in his speci alty, as a rule, with quite decent wages. As for the statistics on the unemployment rate, italso impressive - only 5% of the country's inhabitants cannot find a formal job.

In practice, getting into the US is not so easy. What are the features of migration to the USA? What are its types? What are the main directions and are there certain features of migration to the USA from Russia? Consider this further.

USA: Migration Issues

If we talk about migration problems in this region, then we should first of all note the illegality of this process, which is observed in all regions of the state. How are they solved in practice?

The peculiarity of the US migration legislation lies in its certain difference from the Russian one. This is expressed in the absence of strict measures taken in relation to tourists who have overstayed their stay in the state on a visa. In the event that this happens, the migration service officer will simply expel the negligent traveler outside the United States and mark his data in a special register. For all persons staying in it, a strict ban is established on crossing the country's border for five years. As for Russian legislation, a foreigner will not be released without paying a fine (from 2,000 rubles).

With such simple sanctions against those who are in the country illegally, the problem of illegal migration in the United States continues to grow significantly. Currently, the number of people who illegally stay in the territory of the state reaches more than 10 million people. Many of thembecome such precisely due to the presence of an expired visa, under which they entered as tourists during the validity period. Migration from Mexico to the USA attracts great attention of all American services. As statistics show, the largest number of illegal immigrants arrives just across the border with this state. Of course, a considerable number of them travel by air from other states.

Another problem with the development of illegal migration in the United States is the high cost of the process of deportation of persons staying in the country illegally. In practice, many local authorities simply close their eyes to the problem that has arisen, since it deals a serious blow to the local budgets of many regions. But in some areas (to save a significant amount of money) a new program called "Voluntary Departure" has been developed. Its essence is that a tourist who has been caught as an illegal immigrant must return to his native country on a voluntary basis. After that, he will have the opportunity to re-apply to the US Embassy in his country and apply for a visa.

Statistics show that such a proposal by the authorities is a great success, since according to the laws of the state, a person who was expelled from the country as an illegal immigrant has no right to cross the border for five years, and in some cases even more. In the event that he nevertheless tries to cross the air, sea or land borders of the country without a visa, he faces criminal liability underAmerican laws.

Official statistics show that the main reason for migration to the United States is the we alth and developed level of the country. According to sociologists, this is where people from all over the world seek to find the most acceptable conditions for their lives.

External migration

As you know, there are two main types of migration: external and internal. Practice shows that issues related to external and internal migration in the United States are equally relevant for the modern world. Let's take a closer look at each of these concepts.

External migration refers to all movements of persons who permanently resided in the territory of other states, outside the borders of the United States. Practice shows that in the modern world, most migrants enter the territory of the state due to reunification with close relatives who are in the territory of the States legally. In addition, a large proportion of migrants are refugees who were forced to leave their home countries due to the political situation in them. Another reason among the most common is the labor migration of highly qualified specialists.

If we talk about the statistics of external migration in the United States in numbers, then the largest number of people crossing the territorial border of the state for the purpose of permanent residence in the country belong to the population of Latin America (about 2/3 of the total). All other persons, as a rule, come from Asia (East and South-East), as well as from Europe.

Migration statistics in the United States show that a huge number of crimes within the state are committed by external migrants. As a rule, these criminal acts are expressed by robberies and robberies.

Another significant problem of external migration in the United States is the issue of fertility. It consists in the fact that (even despite the possible circumstance of the illegality of the migrant) a child who is born to a migrant under the current legislation in force in the States is considered a US citizen.

Special attention should also be paid to the fact that recently the English language has become less and less important in the country. This is due to the fact that for the convenience of migrants' stay, the state authorities oblige the authorities to translate documents into the native language of many migrants (the vast majority in a particular region). Sociologists predict that sooner or later English speech will completely lose its relevance in this country due to this problem.

Internal migration

Speaking about the migration of the US population between regions of the state, it should be noted that its main reasons are more profitable employment, as well as the widest opportunities in the field of doing business. Practice shows that internal migration does not have particularly negative consequences, if we do not take into account the fact that the population of less developed regions of the country gradually moves to those that are more densely populated and developed at a high level. The already poor regions continue tobeggar. But US internal migration is dominated by the flow of immigrants from California and New York (according to statistics). It's one of the most developed regions. This situation is connected with the excessive overpopulation of these cities.

The cost of housing also significantly affects internal migration in the state - very often people, including a considerable number of young families, move to areas where the average cost of housing is lower. As statistics show, people are very often attracted to those regions in which the living standard is lower. In recent years, the southern states have become especially attractive to internal migrants. According to experts, they have a wonderful climate, as well as more acceptable living conditions. In addition, these states have been developing well in recent years.

Florida and Texas are also among the predominant destinations for internal migration in the US. This phenomenon (according to many sociologists) is due to the fact that residents of densely populated states see in these regions excellent opportunities for further development and building a successful business of their own.

The main problem of internal migration in the US continues to be crime. This is indeed a very serious problem. Participants of not only external, but also internal migration to the United States become criminals. As a rule, this applies to people from disadvantaged regions of the country.

Urbanization

One of the main reasons for migration to the US is the urbanization of certain cities and evenindividual states. However, before understanding this issue, one should clearly define the meaning of this concept.

Urbanization is a process that is directly related to the increasing role of individual cities or even entire regions of the country against the background of the rest. In this regard, as a rule, there is a significant influx of population into them, which allows the regions to grow not only economically, but also culturally.

Sociologists from various countries of the world define the States as the most urbanized country. This is due to the fact that we althy people who are fed up with constantly spending time in bustling cities are increasingly choosing to travel to remote corners of the country, thereby creating internal migration to the United States. In addition, the urbanization of less populated and not very well developed regions is particularly affected by the fact that the cost of urban plots in such areas is quite low. This is especially evident when comparing prices with large metropolitan areas.

The largest urbanized regions in the US are officially recognized as Boswash and Chipits. These regions include cities such as Chicago, Boston, New York, San Diego, San Francisco and some other cities that are known throughout the world.

Waves of migration to the United States, as a result of which urbanization occurs (according to experts from various industries), do not have the best effect on the life of the population in these regions. This is expressed in the fact that environmental problems are observed in remarkably developed regions. In addition, this situation is due to the fact that in suchmegacities are experiencing a very serious concentration of environmental pollution.

As for the social problems that are caused by urbanization, they are usually associated with the fact that the standard of living varies too much between the population. Peripheral territories in urban areas are in critical condition, and if we talk about society, the society living in them is quite contrasting.

In the process of internal migration of the American population, a peculiar growth of agglomerations takes place, as a result of which the urban lifestyle is widely spread. This is characterized by a sharp decline in the level of agricultural production, as well as an acute shortage of available premises for the expansion of production. In addition, in such settlements there is a significant increase in the number of vehicles, which also negatively affects the ecological situation in previously clean regions.

First steps towards migration

In the event that there is a desire to migrate to the United States, you should definitely clarify certain points for yourself. You need to understand what exactly the move is for. As a rule, people who are already in the United States at the moment got there pursuing the most common life goals: getting an education, finding a job, organizing their own business, and the like. Practice shows that the country's embassies take very seriously people who plan to migrate toher, so your goals must be confirmed and clearly marked.

Besides, any person who plans a more or less long stay in America must know English - this will greatly facilitate his pastime. In addition, knowledge of the language, at least at an intermediate level, is necessary for migration to the country, because when submitting documents, a tourist must pass an exam for knowledge of spoken language.

As you take your first steps toward migrating to the US, you should carefully study the various programs that are currently relevant. You can always find out about them from official sources. The information is posted in a special section of the main website of the consulate.

Package of documents

When migrating to the USA from Russia, it should be understood that this procedure will definitely require a certain package of documents, including not only passports (internal Russian and a valid international passport), but also some others that will confirm their content certain information about the identity of the applicant required by the embassy staff.

So, in addition to the originals of two identity documents, the applicant is required to provide a certificate that records data regarding the marital status of the person. An example of this is a certificate of divorce or marriage, and the like.

Special attention in the representations of states is paid to the level of education of a migrant. As confirmation of this, the presentation of a generala package of documents of all available diplomas of education received within Russia, as well as in other states. In the event that a person already has a certain length of service, then data on this should also be presented.

Especially scrupulous employees of consulates refer to what level of material support a migrant has. They especially pay attention to the presence of real estate (both in Russia and in the United States). In addition, any potential migrant is required to present a bank statement in the name of the applicant in the general package of documents. Statements for other financial assets may be presented.

In addition to everything, a certificate of English language proficiency should be attached - this document is mandatory and must be drawn up in the prescribed form.

So, let's consider further some features of migration to the state in question.

Labor migration

As mentioned above, labor migration to the United States is the most common reason for resettlement to this state, not only for citizens of Russia, but also for other countries. Its exceptional activity is associated with the high income level of the US population, as well as the presence of a wide range of social conditions. What are the features of labor migration in the USA?

First of all, you should pay attention to the fact that in order to travel for the purpose of employment, you should make sure that the level of education is suitable for conducting professional activities in the States. Specialistsnote that for the purpose of employment, migration is possible only if the applicant has a higher education, preferably in a speci alty that is in great demand in the state. Among them are obstetricians and gynecologists, dentists, psychiatrists, teachers of various levels, art directors of cafes and restaurants, business managers, information systems analysts, as well as programmers of various profiles.

Some Russian citizens seek employment in the United States through prior education. Sociologists note that with a diploma issued in the United States, the chances of climbing the career ladder increase very sharply. Practice shows that it is realistic for Russians to enter a university only on a paid basis, since the competition for state-funded places here is quite serious.

Family reunification

Often, migration to America is carried out in order to reunite family ties. As a rule, people who submit a request to visit the United States for the purpose of family reunification receive an affirmative answer. This is due to the fact that US policy is very reverent about family values. As proof of the purpose of the visit, the traveler must provide proof that the person legally residing in America is a relative.

It should be noted that US law provides for the issuance of permits to stay in the state for the purpose of reunification of family ties only for close relatives. These may include sisters orbrothers of those American citizens who have already reached the age of majority (21 years old), as well as children of married and unmarried US citizens. The same goes for spouses.

Tourist trip

It often happens that tourists who were in the United States for the purpose of sightseeing and banal travel remain in the country for permanent residence. How to do it?

Experts in the field of tourism recommend to start with an ordinary visa for a traveler, which is granted for 3 months. It needs to cross the US border. At the moment, it is not recommended to express your true intentions regarding further permanent residence in the state.

After that, the entire period of the permitted period, the future migrant can stay on the territory of the state. You can stay in the United States for as long as your visa allows. It should be noted that at this time it is necessary to behave in the most law-abiding manner. After the expiration of the allotted time, the tourist can apply for migration to the country. Of course, this requires a fairly good reason, in the presence of which, as a rule, the government approves the request submitted.

Migration through investment

Migration from Russia to the United States for permanent residence can go completely without problems if the applicant is a private entrepreneur who plans to make any amount of investment. This is due to the fact that the United States is very fond of those people who contribute to the country's economy. It should be noted that todaythere are a number of attractive programs under which entrepreneurs can obtain the right to permanent residence in the state in question.

To move to the United States on the basis of making investments in the country's economy, it is necessary to present an additional package of financial documents to the consulate. These include all those certificates that confirm that the person has valuable tangible assets and the intention to invest in the economy of the new homeland. As such a document, an extract from a bank account issued in the name and surname of the applicant himself may be suitable. In addition, a questionnaire must be attached to the general package, in the content of which it is necessary to indicate the true purpose of the visit to America.

With such a package of documents, a future investor who wants to immigrate from Russia to the United States must contact the state embassy located in Moscow and tell that he plans to start his business in the country. Practice shows that it takes approximately 3-4 months to review the submitted documents.

Migration of people with extraordinary abilities

USA is a state that strives to make its society, science and culture better. That is why, among the representatives of the population, the countries are always glad to see people with outstanding abilities, which include scientific geniuses, scientists, the best specialists in various fields, as well as simply talented people. For this group of persons, migration is possible by opening a special visa. In order to get it, in gener althe package of documents should be attached those that confirm the special abilities of the individual.

Migration as a refugee

The status of a refugee is taught by those persons who flee from their native state due to the fact that hostilities or other conflicts are taking place on its territory. In this case, they are forced to settle in another country, which, as a rule, is located in the neighborhood. Those people who are persecuted in their country for certain actions or views are also equated to the number of refugees. This group of persons can also include those who are planned to be arrested without any reason. Those who are being fought on religious grounds can also leave their country and be recognized as refugees.

In all of the above cases, citizens of any country can apply for asylum in the United States, if the country gives its consent. It should be noted that in order to obtain this status, it is necessary to prepare in advance a voluminous package of papers that confirm all the grounds. In practice, this is not very easy to do, especially when it comes to people fleeing military conflicts.

Migration of people with real estate in the United States

The United States of America is a state that (along with many other countries) allows the sale of real estate on its territory to citizens of other regions of the world. It should be noted that it is possible to purchase real estate for personal or commercial use only if it is planned to acquire American citizenship in the future. Besides,of course, you will need the availability of material assets in the amount of the cost of the desired housing. As for real estate prices in America, not everyone can afford it, since the price of an average apartment in a prosperous area of the country can be about 750 thousand dollars.

However, the fact of acquiring real estate in the United States provides a person with the right to indefinite residence within the state. In addition, after five years in the country, a person is eligible to apply for US citizenship.

Migration through the Jewish community

Another reliable way to migrate to the US is to become a member of the Jewish community. This, of course, is possible only if one belongs to the corresponding nationality and if one supports the values traditional for this people. Moving to the country in this way is quite simple. This is due to the fact that representatives of Jewish nationality were previously very much oppressed. Now they have rallied and are trying to assist each other in various issues, including providing assistance in migration to the United States.

The Jewish community, whose members live in America, is quite large - it consists of more than five million representatives of this nationality.

In the case of migration in this way, it should be understood that the applicant will be required to provide documents that confirm the Jewish origin of a person. As such, certificates taken from registers, archives, birth certificates, as well as othersimilar documents. Knowing all these subtleties, you can successfully move to the United States for permanent residence.