Where are the Immigrants Coming From?

Below is some data detailing where immigrants to the USA are coming from and their classification.

Since 2000, the United States has seen a significant shift in immigration patterns. Here’s a breakdown of the top origin countries and quotas:

Top Origin Countries (2023)

• Mexico: 180,530 immigrants
• Cuba: 81,600 immigrants
• India: 78,070 immigrants
• Dominican Republic: 68,870 immigrants
• China: 59,260 immigrants

Immigration Quotas
The U.S. has a complex system of quotas and preferences that govern immigration. Here are some key examples:

• Family-Sponsored Preferences: 226,000 visas per year, prioritizing spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
• Employment-Based Preferences: 140,000 visas per year, prioritizing skilled workers, professionals, and investors.
• Diversity Visa Program: 55,000 visas per year, allocated to countries with low immigration rates to the U.S..
• Refugee Admissions: Annual ceiling set by the President, currently 125,000.

Immigration Facts & Statistics in the USA

Immigration Category2023 

Lawful Permanent Residents1,018,349

Family-based: 65% of total admissionsNaturalizations878,500

Average processing time: 13.5 months

Refugee Admissions60,014

Top origin countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Syria

Asylum Grants 43,594

Approval rate: 36% of completed cases

Temporary Workers 685,000

H-1B visas: 85,000 annual cap

International Students1,057,188

F-1 visa holders: Primary category

Immigrant Visa Issuance 422,237

State Department processed Nonimmigrant Visas 8,468,000

Tourism and business: Major categories

Immigration Enforcement 468,000 Removals and returns combined

Diversity Visa

47,306 Annual lottery program winners

Rationale Behind Quotas
The U.S. immigration system aims to balance competing interests, including:

• Family Reunification: Prioritizing family ties to promote social cohesion and stability.
• Economic Growth: Attracting skilled workers and investors to drive innovation and job creation.
• Humanitarian Concerns: Providing refuge to those fleeing persecution, war, or natural disasters.
• National Security: Ensuring the safety and security of the United States.

These quotas and preferences are subject to change, reflecting shifting priorities and global circumstances