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Immigration

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 11, 2025 26 minute read

Immigration, at its core, is the international movement of people to a destination country where they are not natives or do not possess citizenship, often to establish permanent residence or to become naturalized citizens. This phenomenon has been a constant throughout human history, shaping societies, economies, and cultures across the globe. Exploring the multifaceted world of immigration can be intellectually stimulating, offering insights into global interconnectedness, human resilience, and the complex interplay of law, policy, and individual lives. For those considering a path related to immigration, the field offers diverse opportunities to engage with critical contemporary issues, from humanitarian concerns to economic development and international relations.

Introduction to Immigration

This section aims to provide a foundational understanding of immigration, accessible to all readers, including those new to the topic or exploring it out of general curiosity. We will define what immigration entails, touch upon its historical importance, differentiate it from related concepts like emigration and forced displacement, and briefly outline major global migration flows since the 20th century.

Definition and scope of immigration

Path to Immigration

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We've curated 11 courses to help you on your path to Immigration. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
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Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Immigration.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international migration, covering its history, causes, and consequences. It is written by Caroline Brettell, a leading expert on migration.
Provides a comprehensive overview of migration theory, covering a wide range of perspectives from different disciplines. It is written by Caroline B. Brettell and James F. Hollifield, two leading experts on migration.
Examines the politics of immigration in a comparative perspective. It compares the immigration policies of different countries and analyzes the factors that shape these policies.
Comprehensive handbook on immigration and refugee studies. It covers a wide range of topics, including the history of immigration, the causes and consequences of immigration, and the policies and practices of different countries.
Comprehensive guide to immigration law and procedure in the United States. It is written by AILA, the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
Comprehensive history of migration. It traces the history of migration from the earliest times to the present day.
Examines the relationship between migration and development. It argues that migration can be a positive force for development, but that it can also have negative consequences.
Examines the global migration crisis from a legal and policy perspective. It is edited by Louise Arbour and François Crépeau, two leading experts on migration law.
Examines the economic and social impacts of immigration, both positive and negative. It is written by Giovanni Peri, a leading expert on the economics of migration.
Examines the assimilation of immigrants into new societies. It is written by Gary S. Becker, a Nobel laureate in economics whose work on immigration has been highly influential.
Examines the ethical issues surrounding immigration. It argues that there moral obligation to help those who are fleeing persecution or poverty.
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