Decline in Global Interest for U.S. Immigration
The desire to permanently relocate to the United States has reached its lowest point in nearly two decades, driven largely by the Trump administration’s intensified immigration enforcement and stricter border policies. According to Gallup’s recent immigration poll, only 15% of potential migrants worldwide selected the U.S. as their top destination for 2025, a notable decrease from the 24% reported between 2007 and 2009. Meanwhile, nations such as Japan, Germany, and Canada have seen an increase in their appeal among those considering emigration.
Changing Perceptions of American Dreams
In its survey, Gallup reached out to more than 144,000 adults across 140 countries, initially asking whether they would be willing to move to another country permanently if given the opportunity. Respondents affirming interest were then prompted to specify their preferred location. While the U.S. retained its status as the most sought-after destination globally, its attractiveness has significantly diminished, marking the lowest preference since Gallup began tracking this data almost 20 years ago. Canada has emerged as the second choice among future immigrants, attracting 9% of these individuals.
Worldwide Migration Aspirations Shift
Approximately 900 million adults globally express a desire to immigrate permanently, with about 134 million specifically favoring the U.S. Aspirations for global migration have notably declined, slipping from 16% in the 2021-2024 timeframe to 15% in 2025, demonstrating a broader trend of hesitation and reevaluation regarding relocating to the United States.
Regional Preference Variations
Significantly, interest in the United States has dropped sharply in regions such as Latin America and the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. In Southeast Asia, for example, Japan has taken the lead as the preferred destination for 23% of those looking to immigrate, in contrast to only 12% favoring the U.S. Similarly, in the Middle East and North Africa, Germany leads with 13%, followed closely by Saudi Arabia at 12% and the U.S. at 9%. Honduras represented the steepest decline at the national level, with preferences for the U.S. plummeting from 71% in 2024 to just 36% in 2025.
Tightened Immigration Policies Impact Perceptions
Gallup’s findings align with a substantial decrease in international immigration to the U.S., attributed to recent shifts in immigration policy and a waning desire for immigration in various regions. Since President Trump’s return to office in 2025, his administration has ramped up immigration raids, tightened asylum protocols, and escalated deportation efforts, contributing to ongoing negative perceptions of potential U.S. migration.
Impact on International Travel and Community Concerns
Concerns surrounding U.S. immigration enforcement extend beyond potential migrants; international tourism data also reveals trouble. The World Travel and Tourism Council reported a projected 2.3% decline in international visitors to the U.S. in 2025, with spending by these travelers expected to drop by 4.6%. Stricter border enforcement, increased reports of detentions and deportations, and heightened surveillance at U.S. points of entry are cited as key factors creating a “chilling effect” that discourages inbound travel.
Community Sentiments Toward Enforcement Policies
Among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, apprehension regarding immigration enforcement is especially pronounced. A recent AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll found that nearly three-quarters of AAPI adults harbor negative opinions toward Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with over 60% believing that President Trump has taken excessive measures in his approach to deporting undocumented immigrants. Karthik Ramakrishnan, the executive director of AAPI Data and a researcher at UC Berkeley, notes that these communities are particularly sensitive to recent enforcement actions and their potential repercussions.
