Immigration basics

What is immigration?

Key terms and definitions

Immigration refers to the process of moving to a country to live, work, or study with the intention of settling more or less permanently. Several terms are commonly used to describe different aspects of this movement:

• Immigrant: a person who moves to a new country and intends to reside there, often for an extended period or permanently.
• Emigrant: someone who leaves their country of origin to live elsewhere, counted from the origin perspective.
• Migrant: a broad term for anyone who moves across borders for work, study, or other reasons.
• Asylum seeker: a person who requests international protection and may be eligible for refugee status.
• Refugee: someone who has been forced to flee their country due to persecution, war, or violence and is granted protection in another country.
• Stateless person: an individual who is not considered a national by any country.
• Residency visa: a permit that allows a person to live in a country for a specified time, often with the path to longer-term status.

Beyond these terms, immigration systems rely on regulated processes, eligibility criteria, and documentation to determine who can move and under what conditions.

Legal vs. informal migration

Legal migration follows formal channels such as visas, work permits, or asylum procedures. It typically requires screening, documentation, and compliance with the host country’s laws. Informal migration refers to moving without authorization or using irregular means, which can carry legal risks and limit access to services. While some people migrate informally due to barriers in the legal system, many governments encourage lawful pathways to ensure safety and protection for migrants as well as orderly labor markets.

Why people immigrate

Economic opportunities

Many people pursue immigration to access higher wages, better job prospects, or the chance to start a business. A new country can offer a broader labor market, training opportunities, and pathways to professional advancement that may be unavailable at home.

Safety and protection

Some migrants seek refuge from conflict, violence, persecution, or natural disasters. In such cases, asylum or refugee status can provide protection and access to essential services while rebuilding a safer life.

Family reunification

Family ties motivate movement as people join spouses, parents, or children who already reside abroad. Family-based programs help maintain social support networks and facilitate adaptation in the new setting.

Getting started with immigration

Overview of the application process

Most immigration processes begin with a determination of eligibility, followed by selecting a visa category. Applicants prepare and submit supporting documents to the relevant immigration authority, may complete biometrics, and often attend an interview. Processing times vary by country and visa type, so applicants should plan ahead, monitor status, and respond promptly to requests for additional information.

Required documents

While requirements differ by program, common documents include:

• A valid passport and copies of biographical data
• Birth and, if applicable, marriage certificates
• Police clearance or background checks
• Medical examination results
• Evidence of financial means or sponsorship
• Educational credentials and professional licenses
• Job offer or admission letters
• Translations and, where required, notarizations
• Proof of prior study or work history

Having organized, translated, and certified documents in advance can prevent delays and reduce the need for replacements.

Finding legal help

Seeking reliable legal guidance is a key step. Government portals often list licensed attorneys or accredited consultants. NGOs and community organizations can provide information on rights, eligibility, and local resources. When choosing help, verify credentials, avoid agents who promise guaranteed outcomes, and be mindful of potential scams that target newcomers.

Visa types and pathways

Temporary vs. permanent stay

Temporary stays cover visas for short-term work, study, tourism, or visiting family. They may have fixed durations and specific conditions, such as work limits or study requirements. In some cases, temporary status can lead to permanent residency through pathways like skilled migration, family sponsorship, or long-term residency programs. Permanent stay typically offers broader rights and a path to citizenship, subject to meeting residency and integration criteria.

Work visas, student visas, refugee status

Work visas enable employment with a designated employer or sector and often require a job offer and sponsorship from an employer. Student visas allow enrollment in educational programs and may permit limited work during studies. Refugee status or asylum provides protection due to persecution or danger in the home country and can come with access to certain protections and services while a durable solution is pursued.

Rights and responsibilities

Rights to work and access services

Rights for immigrants vary by country but commonly include permission to work, access to healthcare, education for children, and eligibility for certain social services. Some programs provide pathways to permanent residence through sustained work or participation in integration activities.

Responsibilities and obligations

Migrants must comply with local laws, maintain valid status, and report changes to authorities when required. Tax obligations, renewal requirements, and participation in language or integration programs may be expected. Meeting these responsibilities helps ensure stability and preserves opportunities for future status adjustments.

Education for immigrants

Language learning and integration

Language skills are central to successful integration. Many communities offer language classes, civic orientation, and practical opportunities to practice with peers and in workplaces. Early language support improves employment prospects, social connections, and access to services.

Enrollment and recognition of prior learning

Enrollment procedures vary, but most education systems require identification and proof of prior learning. Credential evaluation services help translate and recognize foreign qualifications, enabling students to pursue further study or professional licensing and reducing barriers to educational advancement.

Challenges and obstacles

Processing times

Processing times can be lengthy and unpredictable, influenced by policy changes, security checks, and workload. Delays may affect housing, work, and family plans. Applicants should stay informed, timely provide requested information, and maintain copies of all submissions for reference.

Documentation gaps, language barriers, discrimination

Missing or uncertain documents, incomplete translations, and inconsistent records can cause delays or denials. Language barriers can hamper communication with authorities and service providers. Discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, or nationality may affect access to opportunities and fair treatment, making robust support networks and legal counsel important.

Resources and support

Government agencies

National immigration authorities, interior or home affairs departments, and ministries of labor or education typically provide official guidance, application portals, and status updates. These agencies are the primary source for accurate, up-to-date information and decisions.

NGOs and community organizations

Non-governmental organizations, community centers, and faith-based groups often offer counseling, language classes, job search assistance, and social integration programs. They can help newcomers navigate local systems, access services, and build supportive networks.

Legal aid

Legal aid clinics, pro bono lawyers, and publicly funded services may provide free or low-cost help with asylum cases, residency applications, or status disputes. Eligibility varies, so applicants should verify credentials and availability in their area.

Trusted Source Insight

For additional context on education and inclusion for migrants, consult UNESCO’s resources. Visit UNESCO for official documents and guidance related to inclusive education and migrant learners.

Trusted Summary: UNESCO emphasizes inclusive education as a global priority, with a focus on migrant learners. The key insight is that education should be accessible to all, including newcomers, supporting language development, recognition of prior learning, and social integration to improve outcomes for migrants. Inclusive policies help reduce gaps in achievement and support lifelong learning.