The United States has a long history of immigration, with people from all over the world coming to live and work in the country. In this article, we will explore where most of America’s immigrants come from.
Mexico
Mexico is by far the largest source of immigrants to the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, there were around 11.2 million unauthorized immigrants in the United States in 2018, and approximately 4.9 million of them were from Mexico. Mexico is also the largest source of legal immigration, accounting for around 14% of all legal permanent residents in the United States.
China
China is the second-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 5% of all legal permanent residents. Many Chinese immigrants come to the United States for educational opportunities, with large numbers of students studying in American universities.
India
India is the third-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 4.6% of all legal permanent residents. Many Indian immigrants come to the United States for employment opportunities in the tech industry, medicine, and other fields.
Philippines
The Philippines is the fourth-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 4.5% of all legal permanent residents. Many Filipinos come to the United States as healthcare professionals or to work in other industries.
El Salvador
El Salvador is the fifth-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 3.1% of all legal permanent residents. Many Salvadorans come to the United States to escape violence and poverty in their home country.
Cuba
Cuba is the sixth-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 2.9% of all legal permanent residents. Many Cuban immigrants come to the United States to escape political repression in their home country.
Vietnam
Vietnam is the seventh-largest source of immigrants to the United States, accounting for around 2.4% of all legal permanent residents. Many Vietnamese immigrants come to the United States as refugees or to escape political persecution.
In conclusion, while the United States attracts immigrants from all over the world, Mexico is by far the largest source of immigrants, followed by China, India, the Philippines, El Salvador, Cuba, and Vietnam. Understanding where most immigrants come from is essential for policymakers and others to develop appropriate policies to address the needs and concerns of this population.