Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Undocumented immigrants are individuals who enter or reside in a country without proper legal authorization. They do not possess the necessary documents to legally stay in the country.
Related terms
Immigration Enforcement: The act of enforcing immigration laws and regulations to ensure compliance and maintain control over borders.
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals): A policy that provides temporary protection from deportation and work permits for certain undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children.
Pathway to Citizenship: Refers to a process or set of requirements that allow undocumented immigrants to become legal citizens of a country.