Most economists support a combination of more legal immigration with a secure and efficient border. They generally agree that increasing legal immigration has significant economic benefits, such as filling labor gaps, boosting long-term economic growth, fostering innovation, and contributing positively to government finances.
At the same time, economists recognize the importance of border security but emphasize that it should be focused on ensuring orderly, efficient immigration processes. Overly restrictive or inefficient border enforcement can create economic inefficiencies or drive people into unauthorized channels.
Therefore, the ideal approach is one that balances secure borders with clear, accessible pathways for legal immigration that align with a country’s economic needs.
Most economists agree that legal immigration is very beneficial for the U.S. economy.
Here are a few specific areas where economists see immigration as beneficial:
● Labor Market Complementarity: Immigrants often fill jobs in sectors where there is a high demand for workers, such as agriculture, construction, and healthcare. This complements the native workforce, often allowing more citizens to focus on higher-skilled work.
● Economic Growth: Immigration contributes to population growth, which fuels demand for goods and services. Immigrants also start businesses at higher rates than native-born citizens, creating jobs and boosting local economies.
● Innovation: Immigrants are overrepresented in fields like technology and engineering and account for a significant share of patents and new technologies. This innovation drives productivity and economic competitiveness on a global scale.
● Fiscal Contributions: Immigrants, particularly younger ones, pay taxes and contribute to Social Security, often helping to sustain programs for the aging U.S. population.