Exploring the Number of Legal Immigrants in the United States- A Comprehensive Overview
How Many Legal Immigrants Live in the US?
The United States has long been a beacon for immigrants seeking a better life. With its diverse population and rich cultural heritage, the country has seen millions of legal immigrants over the years. But just how many legal immigrants live in the US? This article delves into the numbers and explores the impact of legal immigration on the nation’s demographics and economy.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2020, there were approximately 45.8 million immigrants living in the United States. Out of this total, around 38.4 million were legal immigrants, including naturalized citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and temporary residents. This figure represents a significant portion of the country’s population, with legal immigrants accounting for roughly 11.5% of the total U.S. population.
The number of legal immigrants in the US has been on the rise for several decades. In the 1960s, the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 was passed, which abolished the national-origin quota system and established a preference system based on family relationships, employment, and education. This landmark legislation has contributed to the increase in legal immigration, as it allowed for more immigrants to enter the country through family reunification and employment-based visas.
Family-based immigration remains the primary source of legal immigration to the US. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, approximately 66% of legal immigrants in 2019 entered the country through family-based visas. This includes immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, children, and parents, as well as siblings and other extended family members.
Employment-based immigration is another significant source of legal immigration. This category includes immigrants who have been offered a job in the U.S. by a U.S. employer, or who possess extraordinary abilities, are outstanding professors and researchers, or are multinational executives and managers. In 2019, approximately 23% of legal immigrants entered the country through employment-based visas.
Legal immigrants have had a profound impact on the U.S. economy. They have contributed to the labor force, started businesses, and driven innovation. According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, immigrants are more likely to start a business than native-born Americans, and they are responsible for creating approximately 17% of all new businesses in the U.S.
In conclusion, the number of legal immigrants living in the US is substantial, with around 38.4 million individuals calling the country home. These immigrants have played a vital role in shaping the nation’s demographics and economy, contributing to its cultural richness and economic growth. As the U.S. continues to welcome legal immigrants, the country’s future will undoubtedly be shaped by the diverse and dynamic population that these immigrants bring.
