immigration
noun [ U ]
uk/ˌɪmɪˈɡreɪʃən/ usthe process of coming to a country in order to live in it permanently:
Current immigration levels are driving the U.S. population to double this century.
immigration law/lawyer/attorney An immigration lawyer can help guide you through the immigration process.
Compare
emigration
(also immigration control)
the process of having your passport and other documents officially checked to make certain that you are allowed to enter the country, or the place where this is done:
In the United Arab Emirates, identity cards can be used to go through passport control at entry and exit points so that passengers can pass more smoothly through immigration.
See also
net immigration