The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) is a U.S.-based research organization and public policy institute that focuses on immigration issues. It presents itself as a source of data and analysis for policymakers, journalists, and the public, arguing that lower levels of immigration and stronger enforcement of immigration laws are necessary for social, economic, fiscal, and security reasons. The organization describes its mission as producing research on both legal and illegal immigration and offering policy recommendations intended to reduce unauthorized entries and limit overall immigration levels. For more information, CIS maintains an online presence described as its official site.
Activities and publications
CIS produces a range of materials including research reports, policy briefs, commentary, statistical analyses, and media appearances. Its work commonly addresses the fiscal impact of immigration, labor market effects, public services, border security, and enforcement policy. Typical outputs include short reports aimed at policymakers, longer working papers, and op-eds or testimony submitted to legislative bodies. The organization also compiles and interprets government statistics and often publishes charts and tables intended to show trends in lawful and unlawful migration. Selected topics and outputs can be explored via the group's research reports and summaries of its policy positions.
History and leadership
CIS was established in 1985 by Otis L. Graham Jr., a historian and academic interested in immigration history and policy. Over subsequent decades the center developed a reputation for policy advocacy on immigration restriction and enforcement. A prominent figure associated with the organization is Mark Krikorian, who has served as its executive director and as a regular public commentator on immigration policy. Under its leadership, CIS has emphasized evidence-based presentations intended to influence congressional debates, administrative rulemaking, and public discussion.
Reception and criticism
The center occupies a contested place in the immigration policy landscape. Supporters and some policymakers cite CIS work as rigorous and policy-relevant, while critics — including advocacy organizations, some scholars, and journalists — describe it as a restrictionist or anti-immigration institute. Criticisms leveled at CIS include accusations of selective use of data, analytical choices that produce alarmist conclusions, and ideological framing of research questions. CIS disputes such characterizations and maintains that its analyses are objective and grounded in official statistics.
Role in policy debates and notable distinctions
CIS has been influential in certain policy discussions by providing research that supports stricter immigration controls and enforcement measures. It is one of several think tanks in the United States focused on immigration, differing from pro-immigration research organizations in goals and policy recommendations. The center operates as a nonprofit research entity and relies on grants and donations to fund its work; its funding sources and ideological orientation are often noted by observers assessing its role in public debate.
Whether cited as an authoritative research source or criticized as advocacy-oriented, the Center for Immigration Studies remains a visible actor in American immigration policy conversations and continues to shape arguments about enforcement, legal immigration levels, and the social and economic consequences of migration.