English Reference
noun

immigration

n.
US /ˌɪməˈɡɹeɪʃən/ UK /ˌɪmɪɡɹˈeɪʃən/ im·mi·gra·tion UK spelling immigrations

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of coming to live in a different country permanently.

    the movement of non-native people into a country for the purpose of establishing permanent residence.

    Simple

    The government is discussing new laws to manage immigration more effectively.

    In context

    Economists often debate the long-term impact of high immigration levels on the domestic labour market and national infrastructure.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun when discussing the general concept or policy.

    Pitfall
    He is interested in the emigration to Canada. He is interested in immigration to Canada.

    Use 'immigration' for moving into a country and 'emigration' for leaving one's home country.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    the place at a port, airport, or border where officials check your passport and visa.

    the government department or physical checkpoint at a national border where entry documents are inspected.

    Simple

    It took us over an hour to get through immigration at the airport.

    In context

    After landing, passengers must proceed directly to immigration to have their travel documents verified by border officials.

    Usage

    Commonly used with the verbs 'go through' or 'clear'.

    passport controlborder control

Usage immigration crackdown · immigration policies · immigration enforcement

There are reports that immigration offices in Cantabria, Tarragona, Castellón, and Alicante have adopted this automated system, preventing scammers from booking appointments for this process and then selling them for large profits.

The Local· 13 Aug 2026

I spoke to specialist reporter Diane Taylor , who has followed shifts in immigration policy and the individuals who must live through them for decades.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

From immigrate + -ion.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated