Since Donald Trump’s re-election, many individuals without proper immigration documents have been living in fear.
During his campaign, Trump promised the mass deportation of over 11 million “undocumented immigrants” in the United States—a pledge that would be difficult, if not impossible, to fulfill.
This article examines whether the far-right president would have the capability to honor this promise, which immigrant groups would be affected, and who qualifies as “undocumented” in the U.S?
If you follow U.S. media, you’ll notice various terms used to describe foreign citizens without proper documentation.
Right-wing, often anti-immigrant media, use terms like “illegal immigrants,” sometimes even the derogatory “illegal alien.” The latter term carries an offensive connotation that is harsher in English than its French translation.
On the other hand, so-called “left-wing” media—although the notion of left-wing media in the U.S. is debatable from a sociological perspective—prefer the term “undocumented immigrants.”
From the perspective of an immigrant, for whom these terms may be interchangeable, both right- and left-leaning media often convey disdain or hostility.
This is troubling, given that immigrants are essential to the survival of the United States.
Most individuals arriving in the U.S. possess some form of documentation. While these documents may not be recognized in the U.S., a person entering with a passport or equivalent cannot accurately be labeled “undocumented.”
That said, some individuals arrive at the southern border without documents at the time of admission or arrest.
At CTN, we prefer the term “persons without proper documentation in the United States,” acknowledging that even this term is subject to debate.
Regardless of terminology—illegal alien, undocumented immigrants, or persons without proper documentation—this text aims to provide a clearer understanding of who is considered undocumented or illegal under U.S. immigration law. It focuses on facts, figures, and their relevance to the Haitian-American community.
Who Is Considered Undocumented?
A person is considered “undocumented” when they reside in the United States without proper legal status. This can occur in several scenarios:
Entering without inspection or official documents: Crossing borders without passing through authorized checkpoints.
Overstaying a visa: Entering the U.S. legally, such as on tourist or student visas, and remaining after the visa expires.
Failure to comply with a deportation order: Staying in the country despite a court decision mandating departure.
Violation of legal entry conditions: Engaging in activities, like working on a visa that prohibits employment.
This list is not exhaustive. A person deemed “legal” today may become “illegal” tomorrow if a time-limited status, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), expires without renewal or adjustment.
Understanding Immigration Status Categories
To grasp the complexity of the U.S. immigration system, it’s essential to understand its primary status categories:
Legal Permanent Residents (LPR)
Commonly known as “green card holders.”
Acquired through family ties, employment, or the Diversity Visa Lottery.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Offers temporary protection to nationals from countries affected by natural disasters or conflict.
Approximately 200,000 Haitians currently benefit from TPS.
Non-Immigrant Visa Holders
Includes international students (F-1), temporary workers (H-1B, H-2A, H-2B), and tourists (B-1/B-2).
These statuses have limited durations and conditions.
Asylum Seekers
Individuals fleeing persecution can apply for protection.
The asylum process is lengthy and has varying approval rates.
Beneficiaries of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Provides temporary protection to young individuals who entered the U.S. as children without legal status.
Demographics and Economic Contributions
“Undocumented immigrants” constitute a significant portion of the U.S. population and economy, with an estimated 11.4 million in 2022. Key contributions include:
Employment Sectors
Agriculture: 13–15% of the workforce.
Construction: 15–17%.
Hotels and restaurants: 8–10%.
Manufacturing: 6–8%.
Economic Impact
Contribute $1.1 trillion annually to GDP.
Pay $13 billion annually to Social Security without being eligible for benefits.
Contribute $11.6 billion in state and local taxes.
Labor Market Impact
Fill essential roles in sectors like agriculture, food processing, building maintenance, healthcare, and childcare, often addressing labor shortages.
Preconceived Notions and Crime Statistics
Prejudices against undocumented immigrants often include claims of increased criminal activity. However, research shows they are less likely to commit crimes than U.S. citizens.
A 2020 Cato Institute study found that in Texas, undocumented immigrants had a conviction rate 45% lower than native-born Americans. Most arrests involving undocumented immigrants pertain to immigration violations rather than criminal offenses.
Impact on the Haitian Community
For the Haitian community, undocumented immigration is a pressing issue:
TPS beneficiaries: Over 200,000 Haitians are temporarily protected from deportation and allowed to work legally.
Challenges:
Family separation: Fear of deportation divides families.
Access to services: Many avoid healthcare or social assistance to avoid attention from authorities.
Stigmatization: Prejudices impact daily life and opportunities.
Future Prospects and Recommendations
Haitians seeking to adjust their status or assist loved ones should:
Consult immigration attorneys: Professional advice is critical due to frequent legal changes.
Stay informed: Explore opportunities under regularization programs.
Engage with community organizations: Access support, resources, and updated information.
Note: This article is based on research from authoritative migration sources and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should contact an attorney or nonprofit organization for specific guidance.
Source:
USCIS.gov