# immigration

/ˌɪməˈɡɹeɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪmɪɡɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/immigration
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. moving to a new country

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. border control

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

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

## Examples

- The government is discussing new laws regarding immigration.
- After landing, the passengers had to wait in a long line at immigration to have their visas stamped.
- Economists often debate the long-term effects of immigration on the domestic labor market, weighing the benefits of a larger workforce against the pressure on public services.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.