Create a path to legal status for long-term undocumented immigrants without a criminal record
There are an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US, many of whom have lived here for years or decades, work, and pay taxes. Many have US-born children. Proposals range from providing a path to citizenship (especially for those brought as children, known as Dreamers) to large-scale deportation of undocumented residents.
Arguments For & Against
Pro Argument
It is neither realistic nor humane to deport 11 million people, many of whom have lived here for decades, have US-born children, and are contributing members of their communities. Providing a path to legal status recognizes reality, allows people to fully participate in society, and is the compassionate thing to do.
Con Argument
Providing a path to legal status rewards illegal entry and will encourage more people to cross the border illegally, hoping for a future amnesty. The US cannot send the message that illegal immigration will eventually be rewarded with citizenship.
Source document: Immigration_Quaire_Full_1024.pdf
| Type | Organization | Date | Nat | Rep | Dem | Gap | Metric |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New PPC Survey (2026) | Program for Public Consultation | February 2026 | 77% | 69% | 87% | 18% | favor |
| Deliberative Survey | Program for Public Consultation | October 2024 | 64% | 57% | 78% | 21% | acceptable |
| Deliberative Survey | Program for Public Consultation | October 2024 | 58% | 45% | 75% | 30% | other |
Program for Public Consultation — February 2026
To address immigrants in the US illegally who have not committed a crime, and who have been in the US for some years, the following proposal has been put forward: Offer them a long-term visa, provided they pay a penalty and any taxes they may owe, and remain crime-free.
Program for Public Consultation — October 2024
Create a new type of long-term visa for immigrants who have been living in the US for some years without legal status. Here are the basic elements: Immigrants without legal status could apply for a new type of visa, if they: have been in the US for some years; have not committed a serious crime; pay a penalty and any back taxes they owe. This new type of visa would: allow them to live and work in the country legally; require they pay current taxes. If they are accepted for this visa, they would eventually be allowed to apply for citizenship after several years, but they would have to go to the back of the line, like anyone who applies for citizenship. People who do not qualify for this new visa would be subject to deportation. [11-point scale from 'not at all acceptable' to 'just tolerable' to 'completely acceptable']
Related Policies
Create a path to citizenship for undocumented people brought to the US illegally as children
83% national support
Mandate employers verify new employees' legal status, while increasing the number of work visas
83% national support
Deport undocumented immigrants who have committed serious crimes
85% national support
Hire more immigration court judges and staff to speed up asylum cases
76% national support