Immigrantorigin

Immigrant origin is a demographic and social science term used to describe populations whose background is tied to immigration. In its broad usage, immigrant-origin includes people who were born outside the country of residence (foreign-born) and their descendants who retain a connection to immigration, typically defined as having at least one foreign-born parent. The concept is used to study patterns of integration, socioeconomic outcomes, health, education, and discrimination, and to inform policy design.

Measurement and data collection vary by country. Censuses and surveys usually rely on self-reported place of birth or parental birthplace to determine immigrant-origin status. Some studies use the immigrant-origin indicator to identify first generation (foreign-born individuals) and second-or-more generation (native-born with immigrant parents) populations, though definitions differ. Challenges include heterogeneity within immigrant-origin groups, changing migration patterns, and the sensitivity of information about legal status or ethnicity.

Immigrant-origin research examines outcomes such as labor market participation, income, educational attainment, language proficiency, and access to services. It also explores integration processes, social cohesion, and experiences of discrimination. Critics caution against treating immigrant-origin populations as monolithic and emphasize intersection with race, ethnicity, class, and religion. Comparisons across countries require careful attention to differing definitions, measurement conventions, and inclusion criteria for generation status.

Related terms include immigration, immigrant, generation status, and minority in some contexts. Immigrant-origin data are used to monitor demographic change, target social programs, and evaluate the effects of immigration policies.