U.S. could lose more immigrants than it gains for first time in 50 years

The United States may lose more immigrants than it gains in 2025, marking what could be the first time in over 50 years that net immigration turns negative.

A forthcoming report from the Brookings Institution and the American Enterprise Institute warns that the country may be entering uncharted territory. Economists point to the Trump administration’s stricter border enforcement, visa cancellations, and the removal of protections for migrants as major contributing factors.

Experts also caution that the labor gap is likely to widen, with the foreign-born workforce already having declined by more than 1 million people since March.

President Trump has directed ICE to pause immigration raids in certain industries, including restaurants, hospitality, and farming. He has expressed concern over the intensity of recent ICE operations and their impact on businesses. According to Trump, employers in key sectors are reporting that long-time workers are being removed and are proving difficult to replace.