A term synonymous with “foreign national” that refers to all noncitizens living permanently or temporarily in a given country, including both authorized and unauthorized residents. In 2023, the number of foreign nationals in the United States reached a historic high, comprising 14.3% of the American population.

Protection and immigration benefits provided to someone who has fled or has reason to fear persecution in their home country. Countries are politically incentivized to grant asylum to former residents of rival nations.

The emigration of workers who have received advanced training in one country to pursue opportunities in other countries, possibly leaving a short supply of highly specialized professionals in their wake.