How is illegal migration defined?

Illegal migration is defined as the movement of people into a country without following established immigration laws and regulations. This definition encompasses individuals who cross borders unlawfully, often by avoiding legal checkpoints or failing to obtain the necessary visas or permits required for entry. Such migration can occur for various reasons, including seeking better economic opportunities, fleeing conflict, or escaping persecution, but it fundamentally involves bypassing the legal frameworks that govern immigration.

The other options do not accurately reflect the concept of illegal migration. Authorized immigration processes represent legal entry into a country, while migration for humanitarian purposes usually falls under regulated categories that provide lawful protection or entry. Additionally, migrating as a result of environmental disasters can be associated with legal defined terms such as climate refugees or disaster relocations, which typically involve formal recognition and legal pathways for those affected. These distinctions highlight the importance of adhering to immigration laws, which define legal versus illegal movement of people across borders.