Posted on August 02 2013
Illegal immigration isn't just about economics, study says
By , Editor
Updated April 03 2023
Mexican migrants deciding whether to cross the border illegally are driven not just by economics -- but also by their own beliefs about whether United States immigration laws are legitimate and fairly applied, a new study finds.
The study, published this month in the American Sociological Review, paints a complicated picture of why people choose to enter the U.S. illegally.
Some findings seem unsurprising: Mexican men are more likely to decide to cross into the United States illegally if they think there are few jobs in Mexico, the study shows. Men who think crossing illegally is very dangerous were less likely to say they intend to make the trip.
But economic troubles in Mexico don’t completely explain why some men cross and some don’t, said Emily Ryo, the Stanford Law School research fellow who was the author of the study. The way that would-be-migrants see the law is also important: Mexican men who believe that U.S. immigration rules are unfairly applied were more likely to plan on violating them, she found.
For instance, Mexican men who believe that Mexicans have a right to be in the United States without U.S. government permission were more than twice as likely to plan to cross illegally, the study showed. That belief was especially common among men who thought that Mexicans or immigrants with darker skin were not treated fairly by U.S. immigration enforcement.
When Ryo talked to people who were about to cross the border illegally, she found that many saw the decision as part of their responsibility to their families "to get through situations that were brought on through no fault of their own, such as a crop failure or an economic downturn."
If Mexican migrants also question the fairness of U.S. immigration laws, "it allows them to see this particular law as not worthy of obedience," Ryo said. They see violating the law as justified.
The study also found that people who have friends or family who have tried to cross illegally are much more likely to plan to do the same -- a sign that some communities may have developed a “culture of migration” that makes it a rite of passage for young men, Ryo suggested.
The new study comes as immigration reform legislation is up for debate, thrusting arguments about illegal border crossings back into the spotlight. The bill that has cleared the Senate includes an added $46 billion for border security.
Ryo said her findings suggest that cracking down on immigration enforcement alone may do little to dissuade people from making the trip. Worries about how likely they were to be arrested did not strongly sway Mexican migrants against crossing illegally, she found.
Devoting more resources to creating jobs in Mexican communities that send migrants, as well as countering perceptions that U.S. immigration laws are unfairly enforced, might be alternative strategies, Ryo said.
The study was based on surveys of more than 1,600 men interviewed in Mexican communities, gathered through the Mexican Migration Project. The survey included men ages 15 to 65 who were currently working in Mexico or planning to work in Mexico or the U.S. in the next year.
Mexican migrants deciding whether to cross the border illegally are driven not just by economics -- but also by their own beliefs about whether United States immigration laws are legitimate and fairly applied, a new study finds.
The study, published this month in the American Sociological Review, paints a complicated picture of why people choose to enter the U.S. illegally.
Some findings seem unsurprising: Mexican men are more likely to decide to cross into the United States illegally if they think there are few jobs in Mexico, the study shows. Men who think crossing illegally is very dangerous were less likely to say they intend to make the trip.
But economic troubles in Mexico don’t completely explain why some men cross and some don’t, said Emily Ryo, the Stanford Law School research fellow who was the author of the study. The way that would-be-migrants see the law is also important: Mexican men who believe that U.S. immigration rules are unfairly applied were more likely to plan on violating them, she found.
For instance, Mexican men who believe that Mexicans have a right to be in the United States without U.S. government permission were more than twice as likely to plan to cross illegally, the study showed. That belief was especially common among men who thought that Mexicans or immigrants with darker skin were not treated fairly by U.S. immigration enforcement.
When Ryo talked to people who were about to cross the border illegally, she found that many saw the decision as part of their responsibility to their families "to get through situations that were brought on through no fault of their own, such as a crop failure or an economic downturn."
If Mexican migrants also question the fairness of U.S. immigration laws, "it allows them to see this particular law as not worthy of obedience," Ryo said. They see violating the law as justified.
The study also found that people who have friends or family who have tried to cross illegally are much more likely to plan to do the same -- a sign that some communities may have developed a “culture of migration” that makes it a rite of passage for young men, Ryo suggested.
The new study comes as immigration reform legislation is up for debate, thrusting arguments about illegal border crossings back into the spotlight. The bill that has cleared the Senate includes an added $46 billion for border security.
Ryo said her findings suggest that cracking down on immigration enforcement alone may do little to dissuade people from making the trip. Worries about how likely they were to be arrested did not strongly sway Mexican migrants against crossing illegally, she found Devoting more resources to creating jobs in Mexican communities that send migrants, as well as countering perceptions that U.S. immigration laws are unfairly enforced, might be alternative strategies, Ryo said.
The study was based on surveys of more than 1,600 men interviewed in Mexican communities, gathered through the Mexican Migration Project. The survey included men ages 15 to 65 who were currently working in Mexico or planning to work in Mexico or the U.S. in the next year.
For more news and updates, assistance with your visa needs or for a Free Assessment of your profile for Immigration or Work Visa’s just visit www.y-axis.com
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Can Indians apply for the Sweden Residence Permit?
Can Indians apply for the Sweden Residence Permit?
Can Indians apply for the Sweden Residence Permit?
Yes, Indians can apply for the Sweden Residence permit at the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi or online through the official Swedish website. To qualify for a Swedish residence permit, candidates must have a valid reason to stay in the country, such as employment, studies, or as a family member of a Swedish resident. The eligibility and requirements for the Swedish residence permit vary based on your purpose of visit, such as study, work, or family reunification. The Swedish residence permit offers a pathway to permanent residency after a qualifying period of residence in the country.
*Want to apply for a Sweden Residence permit? Let Y-Axis help you with the process.
Eligibility requirement for a Sweden Residence permit
The eligibility criteria for a Swedish residence permit vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for and the purpose of your travel.
However, the general eligibility requirements for a Sweden Residence permit include the following:
- An original and valid passport
- Submit proof of reason for your stay in Sweden (studies, work, or family reunification)
- Submit proof of stay in Sweden (admission to a university, or a valid job offer)
- Have sufficient funds to support your stay in Sweden
You can apply for a Swedish residence permit for studies, work, or family reunification. Given below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility requirements for each:
Requirements for a Sweden Residence Permit for Studies
The eligibility requirements for a Sweden Residence permit for studies are as follows:
- Must be enrolled in a full-time study course at a Swedish university or college
- Have a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
- Have enough funds to support your living expenses and tuition fees (bank statement, or proof of a valid scholarship)
- Proof of enrolment into a Swedish university (admission letter from the university or fee payment receipt)
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Copies of your latest passport-sized photographs
- A fully-filled and signed residence permit application
Also, read…
Can a student get PR in Sweden?
Requirements for a Sweden Residence Permit for Work
The eligibility requirements for a Sweden Residence permit for work are as follows:
- A valid passport
- Copy of a written employment contract from a Swedish employer with details highlighting the job title, salary, and duration
- A valid job offer from a Swedish employer
- Have a minimum monthly salary of SEK 29,680
- Have sufficient funds to support your stay in the country
- Proof of accommodation in Sweden (lease or rental agreement)
- Have a valid medical insurance
- Proof of work experience and qualifications, such as a diploma or degree (for skilled job roles)
- Proof of intent to exit the country after the end of the employment contract
*Want to apply for a Sweden Residence permit for work? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
Steps to apply for a Sweden Residence Permit from India
You can follow the steps below to apply for a Sweden Residence permit from India:
Step 1: Prepare your visa application
- Gather the documents required, along with copies of your most recent passport-sized photographs.
- Pay the tuition fee (if you are a student)
- Keep the digital copies of your documents ready for the next step
Step 2: Apply online
- You can apply online through the official website
- Submit your documents and other requirements
- Complete the fee payment
Step 3: Attend the visa appointment and submit biometrics
- You will need to schedule an appointment at the nearest Swedish consulate or the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi.
- Attend the appointment and provide the biometrics (fingerprints and photographs)
- Pay the application fees (If you are applying offline at the Swedish consulate)
Step 4: Await a decision
- You will now be required to wait for the application to be processed, which may take approximately 2-3 months.
- Upon approval, you will receive a notification via email
Step 5: Get your residence permit
- Upon success, a physical residence permit card will be sent to the consulate from which you applied.
- Collect the card
- Fly to Sweden
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
FAQs
Who can apply for a Sweden Residence Permit from India?
Indians looking to move to Sweden for work or study purposes for over 90 days, as well as those seeking to reunite with their family in Sweden, can apply for a Swedish Residence permit from India. The requirements vary by purpose, but generally include a valid passport, sufficient funds, and submitting the application online through the official website.
What are the eligibility requirements for Indians to get a Sweden Residence Permit?
The eligibility requirements depend on whether you apply for studies, work, or family reunification. A general checklist includes:
- An original and a valid passport
- Valid job offer in Sweden (for work)
- Valid purpose of stay in Sweden (studies, work, or family reunification)
- Proof of admission into a Swedish university (for studies)
- Medical insurance
- Clear criminal record
- Proof of funds: SEK 10,314 per month for students; workers must meet the minimum salary requirements
What types of residence permits are available in Sweden for Indians?
Sweden offers both temporary and permanent residence permits. Common categories include:
- Work permit
- Researcher permit
- Family reunification permit
- Study permit
- Permanent residence
How can Indians apply for a Sweden Residence Permit online?
- Go to the official Swedish website and select “e-service for residence permits.”
- Fill out the online visa application form.
- Arrange and upload the required documents.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Schedule a visa appointment at the nearest Swedish consulate or the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi.
- Submit your biometrics.
- Await a decision.
What documents are required for a Sweden Residence Permit application?
Documents vary by permit type, but generally include:
- Passport
- Visa application form
- Copies of your latest passport-sized photographs
- Sufficient funds or financial resources
- Employment/job contract (if applicable)
- Fee payment receipt
- Medical insurance
- Educational qualifications
- Proof of accommodation in Sweden
- Criminal clearance certificate
How long does it take to process a Sweden Residence Permit for Indians?
Processing typically ranges from 3 to 24 months, depending on the permit type. Study and work permits can take around 3–4 months, while self-employment permits may take up to 24 months. Timelines depend on where you apply, the category, application completeness, and overall volume. After approval, the physical residence permit card may take 2–4 weeks to arrive.
Can Indians work in Sweden with a residence permit?
Yes. You can work in Sweden if you have a residence permit for work (or a separate work permit, as applicable). After living and working in Sweden for a qualifying period, you may be eligible for permanent residence, allowing you to work freely without being tied to a single employer.
What is the cost of applying for a Sweden Residence Permit from India?
The application costs generally range from SEK 750 to SEK 2,200, depending on the permit type. Typical fees include:
| Type of Residence Permit | Applicant Category | Application Fee (in SEK) |
| Work Permit | Main applicant | SEK 2,200 |
| EU Blue Card (Skilled Work) | Main applicant | SEK 2,200 |
| Student Residence Permit | Main applicant | SEK 1,500 |
| Family Residence Permit | Adult applicant | SEK 1,500 |
| Family Residence Permit | Child under 18 years | SEK 750 |
| Researcher Residence Permit | Main applicant | SEK 1,500 |
Fees are indicative and may change; check the official website before applying.
Can family members of Indian applicants also get residence permits in Sweden?
Yes. Spouses/partners and dependent children of the primary applicant can apply for residence permits. Requirements vary based on the primary applicant’s status (worker, student, or person with protected status) and typically include proof of relationship, sufficient funds, and other supporting documentation.
What are the common reasons for Sweden Residence Permit rejection for Indian applicants?
- Insufficient finances or funds
- Incomplete visa application
- Incorrect or missing documents
- Unclear purpose of visit
- Lack of a proper travel itinerary
- Unclear accommodation plans in Sweden
- Lack of sufficient ties to India
- History of visa violations
- Overstaying or deportations
- History of visa rejections
Can Indians apply for a Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa?
Can Indians apply for a Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa?
Can Indians apply for a Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa?
Yes, Indians can apply for a Portugal Job Seeker visa, which has now been replaced with the new Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa, starting October 23, 2025. With this visa, you can enter Portugal and search for employment for a maximum of 120 days. The Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking visa is valid for up to 4 months and can also be extended for an additional 60 days upon eligibility. To qualify for the new Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa, Indian nationals must meet specific requirements, including holding a valid university degree, providing proof of relevant work experience, or demonstrating professional qualifications. You can also convert your skilled work-seeking visa to a work permit if you manage to secure a job in Portugal within the 120+60 days.
*Want to apply for a Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Who is eligible to apply for the Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa from India?
You can apply for the new skilled work-seeking visa in Portugal if you are a highly skilled professional with specialized skills in fields such as engineering, IT, and health sciences.
The primary criteria for the Portugal skilled work-seeking visa include:
- Being a highly qualified and skilled professional with specialized technical skills
- Belong to a sector that is one of the top-priority sectors in Portugal (engineering, IT, health sciences, and hospitality)
- Have advanced educational qualifications (degree)
- Having relevant work experience in specialized or priority sectors
Some of the other general eligibility requirements for the Portugal skilled work-seeking visa include:
- Have a valid and original passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
- Sufficient funds to support your stay in Portugal (at least €2,280)
- Have a valid medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Criminal clearance certificate
Note: Applications for the new skilled-work seeking visa are currently not open and will soon be made available.
*Want to work in Portugal? Talk to experts at Y-Axis to assist you with the process.
Steps to apply for the Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa
To apply for the skilled work-seeking visa, you must arrange the documents required, including proof of identity, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and medical insurance. You will then be required to fill out the visa application form, book an appointment at the nearest Portuguese embassy, arrange the necessary documents, complete the biometrics and fee payment process, and wait for a decision from the officials.
You can follow the steps given below to apply for the Portugal Skilled work-seeking visa:
Step 1: Check if you are eligible for the Portugal skilled work-seeking visa (meeting the criteria)
Step 2: Arrange the documents required for the visa
Step 3: Apply at the nearest Portuguese consulate
Step 4: Await a decision
Step 5: Upon approval, you will get your skilled work-seeking visa
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
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Can Indians apply for the Sweden Residence Permit?
