Immigration in the U.S. 2025: Undocumented Population Rises and Key Policies Shift

U.S. immigration policy is at a pivotal moment. In 2025, the government has ramped up efforts to reform the immigration system, with some of these measures currently under review by the Supreme Court—potentially leading to major changes in the coming decades.

One of the most controversial measures under debate is an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born on U.S. soil to undocumented immigrants or those with temporary visas. This practice, in place for nearly 160 years and protected by the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, has been a cornerstone of the American citizenship system.

Also read: “Supreme Court Upholds End of Temporary Protection for Venezuelans in the U.S.“

If this order moves forward, projections by the Migration Policy Institute indicate that the undocumented population could grow by as much as 25% over the next 50 years, as those who would currently obtain birthright citizenship would be classified instead as undocumented residents.

Current Immigration Numbers in the U.S.

The immigrant population in the United States grew steadily between 2010 and 2023, reaching 47.8 million in 2023—representing 14% of the total national population. Of that group, more than 13 million are undocumented immigrants, according to the most recent figures from the Migration Policy Institute.

Beyond the numbers, the economic impact of the immigrant population is significant. In 2023, this group contributed approximately $652 billion in taxes and generated an estimated $1.7 trillion in purchasing power, according to the American Immigration Council.

Top States with the Highest Immigrant Populations

Immigrants are most concentrated in East Coast, West Coast, and southern border states, with California, New Jersey, and New York among those with the highest proportions of immigrant residents. These states have also actively responded to federal measures by filing lawsuits against executive orders such as the one aiming to eliminate birthright citizenship and others related to immigration enforcement cooperation.

Where Do Immigrants Come From?

Although the U.S. receives people from all over the world, Mexico remains the top country of origin for immigrants in the United States—with a number that exceeds the combined total from India and China by more than double.

Recent Changes and Legal Context

Since the beginning of his new term, President Donald Trump has implemented a series of measures focused on undocumented immigration. These actions include the deployment of military forces to the southern border, deportations to international prison facilities, and data-sharing agreements between the Department of Homeland Security and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to track individuals with irregular immigration status.

Several of these actions have been challenged in federal courts, and the Supreme Court is currently reviewing the procedures used by lower courts to block some of these initiatives.

Conclusion

The immigration landscape in the United States is undergoing profound transformation. Decisions made in the coming months—particularly in the judicial arena—could shape not only the future of millions of immigrants but also structural aspects of the Constitution and the country’s citizenship system.

From: https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2025/05/15/eeuu/inmigracion-ciudadania-por-nacimiento-eeuu-dg-trax 

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