World Immigration News

Potential Implications of Immigration Restrictions on the U.S. Agricultural Workforce

Release Date: 2025-04-25
Media: KFF
Summary: In the United States, over 2.6 million people work in agriculture, including more than 1 million hired crop workers. The majority of these hired workers are Hispanic noncitizen immigrants, with nearly half lacking work authorization. Most of them have lived in the U.S. for over a decade, primarily coming from Mexico.

Noncitizen immigrant workers are more likely to perform physically demanding outdoor fieldwork, which increases their exposure to climate-related health risks. These workers also face significant barriers to health care access. Over half of all agricultural workers are uninsured, with the rate rising to 77% among those without work authorization. Many report being unable to access needed medical care, due to cost, lack of insurance, language barriers, rural provider shortages, and fear related to immigration status.

Despite their essential role in the food supply chain, agricultural workers—especially undocumented immigrants—struggle with poverty, limited healthcare, and systemic barriers that put their health and well-being at risk. These challenges highlight the critical need for policy reforms to improve protections and support for this vulnerable yet vital workforce.
Tags: USA

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