How much does illegal immigration cost the US each year?

Estimated illegal immigration costs

There have been varying estimates on how much costs illegal immigration poses the US each year and it can be hard to put exact figure on the impact of people living in the country who do not have the correct visas in place.

During his term in office, President Donald Trump has suggested the cost of illegal immigrants to the economy could be as much as $275 billion. This sounds extraordinarily high and it is likely the total cost of illegal immigration is lower. However, as a result of President Donald Trump claims it resulted in strong demand for American immigration reform and updated immigration policy.

Research from the Heritage Foundation in 2013, estimated that there were around 3.7 million illegal immigrants in the UK and those entering the country illegally cost the government around $54.5 billion annually.

Difficulty estimating costs of illegal immigration

David Dyssegaard Kallick, the deputy director of the nonpartisan Fiscal Policy Institute, told NBC News, that it is difficult to assess the economic impact of undocumented immigrants and Trump claims may not produce a fair report of the situation.

He added: “It’s really hard to calculate anyone’s ‘net cost’ or ‘net benefit.’ We all use all kinds of services, from roads to military protection. How do we apportion what part of that is something I or you or an immigrant use?”

Meg Wiehe, deputy director at the nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) explained illegal immigrants and legal immigrants are “contributors to our economy” and boost tax revenue which reduces the net fiscal drain.

Getting US citizenship

The aim of many illegal immigrants in the country is to gain US citizenship and the rights that this brings such as freedom to work and live in the country with family members. Of course, citizenship also comes with obligations such as becoming taxpayers.

Benefits of US citizenship and legal immigration

The following benefits of becoming a citizen include:

• Freedom to pursue “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”
• Freedom to reside and work
• Freedom to express yourself and your faith
• The right to vote in elections for public officials
• The right to a fair trial by jury
• The right to vote for federal office

Responsibilities of no longer being an illegal immigrant

By being granted a green card, people must also be aware of responsibilities and obligations that come with being a US citizen and this include:

• Support and defend the Constitution
• Respect others’ beliefs, rights, and opinions
• Respect and obey federal and state laws, and pay the penalties that can be incurred when the law is broken
• Participate in the democratic processes of your local community
• Pay your taxes honestly and on time
• Serve on a jury when called upon
• Defend your country by military participation if the need should arise

Alternatives to illegal immigration

US naturalization can be a lengthy and often complicated process which can deter people from applying and therefore look at illegal ways of remaining in the country.

However, with the correct advice it is possible to become a legal citizen and ensure your application is process correctly to avoid reject by US immigration services.

At IAS, we are a team of immigration experts ready to provide our best professional service. Your case will be followed by one of our best advisers, who will work to understand your needs.