Who are Undocumented Immigrants?
The crime rate among immigrants is actually lower than among native-born U.S. citizens. (28) Most foreign-born people in the U.S. have legal status. About 35% of the estimated 37 million are naturalized U.S. citizens and 33% are lawful permanent residents. About 2% have temporary resident status and about 31% have no legal status, either entering without permission or overstaying a temporary visa. (29) Many come to find a job to support their families; some come to reunite with family. Others are seeking freedom. (20) “While the perception persists that undocumented immigrants are paid ‘under the table,’ in cash, with their income unreported and untaxed–and indeed some are–the majority of undocumented immigrantsdo have Social Security, Medicare and income taxes deducted from their payroll–though, under current law, they are ineligible for any Social Security or Medicare benefits and for almost all federal- or state- government benefits funded through their income taxes.” (34) “immig
