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Which immigrants contribute to economy and culture, and which don’t?
Economic participation is currently the primary criterion for immigration, yet only 15% of visas were issued for work-related reasons, revealing flaws in this benchmark. Studies indicate that immigrants from regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and Turkey typically do not contribute net taxes throughout their lives, presenting a challenge when these populations dominate immigration flows. While exceptional individuals may contribute economically, the broader demographic is less likely to be net contributors. Furthermore, defining worth solely through economic contributions overlooks the significant cultural roles individuals play, such as stay-at-home parents, who provide invaluable services to their families and communities. Current immigration standards prioritize economic over cultural contributions, which implies that the threshold for entry is inadvertently heightened against potential immigrants compared to those born as citizens. Additionally, many immigrants possess a greater love for their new country than some natives, often displaying more patriotism than locals. This perspective is frequently underappreciated, as exposure to different cultures can enhance appreciation for one's nation, challenging negative perceptions of the host country.