While immigration remains one of the most controversial topics in politics today—and is sure to spur heated debates in the 2016 presidential race—the number of undocumented immigrants from Mexico entering the U.S. has actually declined, not increased, in recent years.
Immigration By the Numbers
Peak years for immigrants entering the United States from Mexico were from 2003 to 2007, according to data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. During those years, approximately 1.9 million undocumented Mexicans immigrated to the U.S. In contrast, the years between 2008 and 2012 saw a 57 percent decrease; a total of 819,000 people entered the U.S. from Mexico during those years.
Why the decline?
The decline in immigration is explained by a variety of factors, including a falling birth rate in Mexico, a growing economy in Mexico—providing more jobs in country, and a decline in available construction jobs in the U.S. In regards to the former, the average woman was giving birth to an average of seven babies in Mexico in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, the birth rate has declined to a similar number to the U.S birth rate (1.88 births per woman, according to 2012 statistics. However, the birth rate has risen by one percent since that time). The declining birth rate doesn’t just mean that there are less people to enter the U.S. from Mexico, but also that there is less competition over jobs within Mexico.
Profile of Immigrants Who Do Enter the U.S. from Mexico
The profile of those who enter the U.S. from Mexico varies greatly. Similar to years past, there are many unskilled laborers who enter the U.S. hoping to find work. However, more than ever before, the profile of immigrants entering the U.S. from Mexico has shifted; many are coming to escape the violence in their own country, not to find work in the U.S. What’s more, a large margin of immigrants who are entering the U.S. from Mexico are educated, speak English, have more wealth the previous generations, and may even be naturalized citizens who are returning.
Despite this trend, those who are opposed to immigration into the U.S. continue to aggressively advocate for anti-immigration and pro-deportation policies.
How a Massachusetts Immigration Attorney Can Help You
If you’ve entered the U.S. from Mexico and have questions about your immigration status, are facing criminal charges, or have fears about deportation, don’t wait to take action. At Goldstein Immigration Lawyers our immigration attorneys are on your side. To learn more about how we can help you and what your rights are, call us today at 617-722-0005.
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