Undocumented Immigrants

Immigrants move to a new country to take up permanent residence. To immigrate legally, a person must go through the destination country's official processes and procedures. Undocumented immigrants reside in a country without following the relevant established legal requirements. Many enter on visas but remain after the date they are obligated to leave. Others cross land or maritime borders without authorization. Some commit fraud to acquire their immigration or work status, such as lying on applications or assuming another identity. Others lose their status based on changing laws or policies.

The debate over the terms "illegal immigrants" or "illegal aliens" continues in the United States. Ethicists point out that detractors often use terms in a discriminatory manner, to imply criminality...