The Yearbook of Immigration Statistics serves as a comprehensive compendium of data related to immigration, meticulously compiled and released to provide valuable insights into immigration trends and enforcement actions within the United States. This resource, while currently managed and published, has roots tracing back to the historical efforts of the Immigration And Naturalization Service (INS).
What Data Does the Yearbook Include?
The tables within the Yearbook of Immigration Statistics offer a detailed breakdown of various immigration-related data points. These encompass key categories that are crucial for understanding the dynamics of immigration into the U.S. during a fiscal year. Specifically, the yearbook provides data on:
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Foreign Nationals Entering the United States: This includes detailed statistics on individuals arriving in the U.S. under different statuses. Key categories include:
- Lawful Permanent Residents: Individuals granted the right to live and work permanently in the United States.
- Temporary Visitors (Nonimmigrants): Those admitted for a specific purpose and limited duration, such as tourists, students, or temporary workers.
- Refugees and Asylees: Individuals fleeing persecution and granted protection in the U.S.
- Naturalizations: The process by which foreign citizens become U.S. citizens, a core function once overseen by the Immigration and Naturalization Service.
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Immigration Enforcement Actions: The yearbook also provides data on the enforcement activities undertaken by immigration authorities. This includes:
- Alien Apprehensions: The number of individuals encountered and taken into custody by immigration enforcement officers.
- Removals: The formal process of deporting individuals from the United States.
- Returns: The return of individuals to their home countries, often at the border.
It’s important to note that while current yearbooks are published under the Department of Homeland Security, earlier editions were produced when the Immigration and Naturalization Service was the primary agency responsible for these functions. The legacy of the INS in data collection is foundational to the current Yearbook’s structure and comprehensiveness.
Historical Context and Data Evolution
Historically, the Yearbook of Immigration Statistics has evolved in its content and scope. Earlier versions included information that is now available in separate, specialized reports. This reflects a refinement in data reporting and a move towards more focused publications on specific aspects of immigration. Despite these changes, the core mission of providing reliable and comprehensive immigration statistics remains consistent.
Data tables are released as they are finalized throughout the year, with the complete Yearbook PDF typically published in September of the subsequent fiscal year. To maintain transparency and historical accuracy, previous yearbooks and datasets are preserved in their original published format. This allows researchers and the public to track trends and access data consistently over time, reflecting the long-standing commitment to data integrity that was a hallmark of the Immigration and Naturalization Service and continues today.
Accessing the Yearbook of Immigration Statistics
Below is a list of available yearbooks. Each link provides access to download the full report in PDF format and, where available, further information “About the Yearbook” for that specific year. These yearbooks are essential resources for anyone needing detailed data on immigration to the United States.
2023 Yearbook
Download coming soon
