Illegal Immigration Declines in California, Increases in Texas

Why are more illegal immigrants coming to Texas instead of California?

New data has emerged showing a shift in areas in which immigrants enter the United States illegally.  Undocumented immigrants today are heading to Texas instead of California.  In 2014, about 2.9 million illegal immigrants lived in California.  The undocumented immigrant population increased just 16 percent from 2000 through 2014.  In comparison, the illegal immigrant population in Texas jumped 75 percent during that same time frame.  Our immigration lawyers at NPZ Law Group explore some factors influencing illegal immigration in the U.S. today.

Illegal Immigrants Favor Texas

One potential driving force behind the stagnant number of illegal immigrants entering California may stem from Operation Gatekeeper.  Operation Gatekeeper started in the 1990s in San Diego.  Its aim was to stop illegal immigration at the border near San Diego, and it appeared to succeed in this mission, though it may have simply pushed border crossing to other parts of the state.  Another factor that may have immigrants electing to enter in Texas rather than California is California’s ever rising cost of living.  California’s housing and other expenses may be simply unattainable to many immigrants, whereas Texas is far more affordable.

Undocumented Immigrants Must Be Prepared

Immigrants across the nation have felt the effects of the new administration’s harsh immigration policies.  Now is the time for any immigrant who is here illegally to be prepared, but not afraid.  The most important thing you can do to prepare for a potential ICE raid or deportation is to understand your legal rights.  If someone official knocks on your door, know to ask if they have a search warrant.  Understand that you have the right to a removal hearing and there are several defenses you can potentially raise.  Contact a deportation and removal attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

If you should have any questions or need more information about the ways in which U.S. Immigration and Nationality Laws may impact you, your family, your friends or your colleagues, please contact the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Lawyers at the NPZ Law Group – VISASERVE – U.S. Immigration and Nationality Lawyers by e-mailing us at info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 (x107).  You can also visit our Law Firm’s website at www.visaserve.com.