A significant reason people immigrate to the United States is for job opportunities and economic advancement. Nearly half of recent immigrants move to fill critical roles in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and healthcare.
Many immigrants also start businesses, contributing to innovation and job creation in the U.S. labor market.
Education
The U.S. is a global leader in higher education, attracting over a million international students annually. Many come for advanced schooling and some pursue long-term work or permanent residency after graduation. Education is particularly a top reason for immigration among people from countries like China and South Korea.
Family Reunification
Family reunification remains a core motivation for immigration, supported by U.S. immigration policy which grants entry through family-based channels. Nearly a quarter of immigrants come to join relatives already living in the U.S., which provides important social networks that help with integration and stability.
Safety and Humanitarian Reasons
Refugees and asylum seekers immigrate to escape persecution, violence, political instability, or environmental crises such as climate change. Safety is often a matter of survival for these immigrants, who report feeling significantly safer after relocation to the U.S..
Diversity and Other Factors
Another reason is the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program that promotes immigration from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. This program allows up to 50,000 people annually to obtain green cards and immigrate.
Regional and National Variations in Motives
Motivation for immigrating varies by region and nationality. For example, Central Americans often prioritize safety and political freedom, Asians and Europeans more often come for education, while Africans and Oceanians primarily seek work opportunities.
Family ties are especially strong among South Asian and Latin American immigrants.
