As of January 2022, it was estimated that about 4.81 million illegal immigrants from Mexico were living in the United States. It was also estimated that 750,000 illegal immigrants from Guatemala were living in the United States.

In 2022, the greatest number of illegal aliens apprehended in the United States were from Mexico, with ******* illegal aliens apprehended. Guatemala, Cuba, Honduras, and Venezuela rounded out the top five in that year.

The estimated population of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. stands at around ** million people. Although the number has stabilized, the United States has seen a spike in migrant encounters in the last few years, with over * million cases registered by the U.S. Border Patrol in 2023. This is a slight decrease from the previous year, when there were over *** million cases registered. Due to its proximity and shared border, Mexico remains the leading country of origin for most undocumented immigrants in the U.S., with California and Texas being home to the majority.

Immigration and political division

Despite the majority of the population having immigrant roots, the topic of immigration in the U.S. remains one of the country’s longest-standing political debates. Support among Republicans for restrictive immigration has grown alongside Democratic support for open immigration. This growing divide has deepened the polarization between the two major political parties, stifling constructive dialogue and impeding meaningful reform efforts and as a result, has led to dissatisfaction from all sides. In addition to general immigration policy, feelings toward illegal immigration in the U.S. also vary widely. For some, it's seen as a significant threat to national security, cultural identity, and economic stability. This perspective often aligns with support for stringent measures like Trump's proposed border wall and increased enforcement efforts. On the other hand, there are those who are more sympathetic toward undocumented immigrants, as demonstrated by support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

In 2022, the greatest number of illegal aliens returned in the United States were from the Philippines, with ****** illegal aliens returned. India, Canada, China, and Russia rounded out the top five in that year.

In the United States, around ****** illegal persons from Asia were returned in 2021, the highest of any region of origin. Illegal persons coming from elsewhere in North America made up the second highest with ****** returns.

In 2022, about ****** illegal aliens from Asia were apprehended in the United States, compared to ****** illegal aliens from Europe.

In January 2022, it was estimated that about 1.85 million male illegal immigrants living in the United States were aged between 35 and 44 years old. In that same year, it was estimated that 1.52 million female illegal immigrants living in the U.S. were between 35 and 44 years old.

Graph and download economic data for Employment Level - Foreign Born (LNU02073395) from Jan 2007 to Jun 2025 about foreign, household survey, employment, and USA.

Acknowledgement

The following table is imported from the 2019 Yearbook of Immigration Statistics under the Department of Homeland Security:

The 2019 Yearbook of Immigration Statistics is a compendium of tables that provide data on foreign nationals who are granted lawful permanent residence (i.e., immigrants who receive a “green card”), admitted as temporary nonimmigrants, granted asylum or refugee status, or are naturalized. The Yearbook also presents data on immigration enforcement actions, including apprehensions and arrests, removals, and returns.

Table 39. Aliens Removed or Returned: Fiscal Years 1892 to 2019 (https://www.dhs.gov/immigration-statistics/yearbook/2019/table39)

Inspiration

The data was collected to observe trends in history reflecting the number of immigrants deported - more specifically removed or returned.

In 2022, an estimated 10.99 million unauthorized immigrants were living in the United States. This is an increase from about 3.5 million unauthorized immigrants who lived in the United States in 1990.

In 2020, about 3,2708 non-criminal aliens from Asia were removed from the United States. The majority of illegal aliens, both criminal and non-criminal, removed came from elsewhere in North America at 1071677 and 112,582 respectively.

These data are part of NACJD's Fast Track Release and are distributed as they were received from the data depositor. The files have been zipped by NACJD for release, but not checked or processed except for the removal of direct identifiers. Users should refer to the accompanying readme file for a brief description of the files available with this collection and consult the investigator(s) if further information is needed. The main aim of this research is to study the criminal mobility of ethnic-based organized crime groups. The project examines whether organized crime groups are able to move abroad easily and to reproduce their territorial control in a foreign country, or whether these groups, and/or individual members, start a life of crime only after their arrival in the new territories, potentially as a result of social exclusion, economic strain, culture conflict and labeling. More specifically, the aim is to examine the criminal mobility of ethnic Albanian organized crime groups involved in a range of criminal markets and operating in and around New York City, area and to study the relevance of the importation/alien conspiracy model versus the deprivation model of organized crime in relation to Albanian organized crime. There are several analytical dimensions in this study: (1) reasons for going abroad; (2) the nature of the presence abroad; (3) level of support from ethnic constituencies in the new territories; (4) importance of cultural codes; (5) organizational structure; (6) selection of criminal activities; (7) economic incentives and political infiltration. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach with a sequential exploratory design, in which qualitative data and documents are collected and analyzed first, followed by quantitative data. Demographic variables in this collection include age, gender, birth place, immigration status, nationality, ethnicity, education, religion, and employment status. Two main data sources were employed: (1) court documents, including indictments and court transcripts related to select organized crime cases (84 court documents on 29 groups, 254 offenders); (2) in-depth, face-to-face interviews with 9 ethnic Albanian offenders currently serving prison sentences in U.S. Federal Prisons for organized crime related activities, and with 79 adult ethnic Albanian immigrants in New York, including common people, undocumented migrants, offenders, and people with good knowledge of Albanian organized crime modus operandi. Sampling for these data were conducted in five phases, the first of which involved researchers examining court documents and identifying members of 29 major ethnic Albanian organized crime groups operating in the New York area between 1975 and 2013 who were or had served sentences in the U.S. Federal Prisons for organized crime related activities. In phase two researchers conducted eight in-depth interviews with law enforcement experts working in New York or New Jersey. Phase three involved interviews with members of the Albanian diaspora and filed observations from an ethnographic study. Researchers utilized snowball and respondent driven (RDS) recruitment methods to create the sample for the diaspora dataset. The self-reported criteria for recruitment to participate in the diaspora interviews were: (1) age 18 or over; (2) of ethnic Albanian origin (foreign-born or 1st/2nd generation); and (3) living in NYC area for at least 1 year. They also visited neighborhoods identified as high concentrations of ethnic Albanian individuals and conducted an ethnographic study to locate the target population. In phase four, data for the cultural advisors able to help with the project data was collected. In the fifth and final phase, researchers gathered data for the second wave of the diaspora data, and conducted interviews with offenders with ethnic Albanian immigrants with knowledge of the organized crime situation in New York City area. Researchers also approached about twenty organized crime figures currently serving a prison sentence, and were able to conduct 9 in-depth interviews.

Snapshot img

Border Security Market Size 2025-2029

The border security market size is forecast to increase by USD 27.49 billion at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the increasing concern for data breaches and the modernization of maritime border security. With the proliferation of digital technologies, the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches at borders is a significant concern for governments worldwide. This has led to a rise in investments in advanced border security solutions, including biometric identification systems and surveillance technologies. Moreover, the modernization of maritime border security is another key driver for the market. The market encompasses platforms such as patrol aircraft, ground attack helicopters, transport helicopters, amphibious aircraft, marine vessels, and submarines. With the rise in maritime trade and the increasing number of migrants entering countries through sea routes, there is a growing need for advanced security systems to ensure the safety and security of coastal areas.
However, the market faces challenges such as strict government rules and regulations, which can hinder the adoption of new technologies and the implementation of border security initiatives. Additionally, the high cost of implementing these solutions can be a significant barrier for many countries, particularly those with limited budgets. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these challenges effectively by collaborating with governments and offering cost-effective, innovative solutions that comply with regulations. The DoD is also reallocating funds from its internal budget to bolster shipbuilding efforts in response to China's expanding naval fleet.

What will be the Size of the Border Security Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The market is witnessing significant advancements, driven by the integration of technology and international cooperation. Predictive modeling and data analytics platforms are revolutionizing threat identification, while unmanned aerial vehicles and autonomous vehicles enhance surveillance capabilities. Biometric identification and psychological profiling are becoming standard for border control, with artificial intelligence and machine learning powering these systems. Interagency coordination is essential for effective border security strategies, and international treaties establish legal frameworks for information sharing. Advanced surveillance systems employ behavioral analysis, quantum computing, and encryption standards to secure borders. Counter-terrorism strategies incorporate open source intelligence and cyber warfare. Training and development in human factors and security standards are crucial for border security personnel.
Simulation and modeling tools help optimize field operations, and automated border control streamlines the traveler processing experience. Biometric passports and blockchain technology ensure secure document authentication. The market's future trends include the adoption of advanced technologies like AI, biometrics, and encryption to strengthen border security policies.

How is this Border Security Industry segmented?

The border security industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Platform

  Air
  Land
  Sea


Component

  Laser
  Radar
  Camera
  Perimeter intrusion
  Others


Type

  Platform-based systems
  Stationary systems
  Portable systems


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Platform Insights

The air segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses a range of technologies and strategies aimed at safeguarding national territories from various threats, including illegal immigration, weapons trafficking, and cross-border crime. Access control and immigration control are crucial components, with advanced systems employing biometric authentication and facial recognition for efficient identification. Intelligence gathering is integral, utilizing data analysis, threat analysis, and information sharing among law enforcement agencies. Physical barriers, such as fence systems and physical barriers, are complemented by surveillance systems, including security cameras, motion detection, and night vision. Remote sensing and vulnerability assessment help in identifying potential weaknesses, while border agents and security personnel ensure an effective response

With an estimated ******* eligible people, Mexico was the number one country of origin for people immediately eligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in the United States in 2022. El Salvador trailed behind, but was the country with the second highest population immediately eligible for DACA, with ****** people.

Mexican deportations from the United States have fluctuated significantly over the past decade and a half, with the highest numbers occurring during Barack Obama's first term. From 2009 to 2012, nearly 1.85 million Mexicans were deported, a figure that has since declined under subsequent administrations. The Biden administration has seen 824,018 Mexican nationals deported between 2021 and 2024, marking a slight increase from the Trump years. Recent trends in deportations While deportations saw a sharp decline during the pandemic years, they have since rebounded. In 2024 alone, 87,300 Mexicans were deported from the United States, indicating a renewed focus on immigration enforcement. This uptick in deportations comes amid a broader increase in unauthorized immigration, with an estimated 10.99 million unauthorized immigrants living in the United States in 2022, up from about 3.5 million in 1990. Refugees in Mexico The complexities of migration in the Americas extend beyond U.S.-Mexico dynamics. Mexico itself has become a significant host country for refugees, with approximately 124,784 refugees residing there in 2023. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year, driven largely by Venezuelan, Haitian, and Central American migrants. Honduras remains the primary country of origin for refugees in Mexico, with over 9,000 Hondurans granted refugee status in 2023, followed by Venezuela with 1,602 citizens.

The largest number of immigrants in Germany were from Ukraine, as of 2023. The top three origin countries were rounded up by Romania and Turkey. Immigrants are defined as having left a country, which may be their home country, to permanently reside in another. Upon arriving, immigrants do not hold the citizenship of the country they move to. Immigration in the EU All three aforementioned countries are members of the European Union, which means their citizens have freedom of movement between EU member states. In practice, this means that citizens of any EU member country may relocate between them to live and work there. Unrestricted by visas or residence permits, the search for university courses, jobs, retirement options, and places to live seems to be defined by an enormous amount of choice. However, even in this freedom of movement scheme, immigration may be hampered by bureaucratic hurdles or financial challenges. Prosperity with a question mark While Germany continues to be an attractive destination for foreigners both in and outside the European Union, as well as asylum applicants, it remains to be seen how current events might influence these patterns, whether the number of immigrants arriving from certain countries will shift. Europe’s largest economy is suffering. Climbing inflation levels in the last few months, as well as remaining difficulties from the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are affecting global economic development. Ultimately, future immigrants may face the fact of moving from one struggling economy to another.

As of 2023, 27.3 percent of California's population were born in a country other than the United States. New Jersey, New York, Florida, and Nevada rounded out the top five states with the largest population of foreign born residents in that year. For the country as a whole, 14.3 percent of residents were foreign born.

Since 2014, more than 9,700 persons have lost their lives or gone missing in the Americas trying to migrate. The U.S.-Mexico border is the most deadly route, as 5,420 migrants have been recorded dead or missing trying to cross it. The real figures of deaths and missing are expected to be considerably higher, as the source warns about the difficulties and challenges of collecting this data, especially in Mexico, the Darien Gap, and maritime routes.

Between 1820 and 1957, more than six million people emigrated from Germany to the United States. The period with the highest levels of migration came during the 1850s and the 1880s, and over 250 thousand documented migrants came to the US from Germany in 1882 alone. The reasons for these mass migrations were not linked to individual events, but were because of the improved access to trans-Atlantic travel, poor economic opportunities at home (particularly for farmers, who struggled with the rapid industrialization of Germany), and to escape religious persecution in Europe. The periods with the lowest levels of migration from Germany were between 1915 and 1945, and were likely caused by the First and Second World Wars, and also the Great Depression.

Since 2014, at least ***** persons have lost their lives or gone missing in the Americas trying to migrate. The figures are presumed to be considerably higher since, as the source warns, collecting this sort of data is particularly challenging, especially in Mexico, the Darien Gap, and maritime routes. 2022 has been the deadliest year to date, since more than ************ migrants have been reported as dead or missing. The U.S.-Mexico border crossing is the migration route in the Americas with most reported deaths or missing since 2014.