ENGLISH
REFERENCE

immigration

n.
US //ˌɪməˈɡɹeɪʃən// UK //ˌɪmɪɡɹˈeɪʃən// im·mi·gra·tion
  1. 1 moving to a new country (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    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. 2 border control (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    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 control
    • border control
Origin

From immigrate + -ion.

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