What defines an unauthorized immigrant in the US context?

In the context of the United States, an unauthorized immigrant is defined as a person who enters or lives in the country without the necessary legal authorization or documentation. This can include individuals who either cross the border without going through the proper immigration channels or those who may have overstayed their visas.

The definition encompasses a broad scope of situations where individuals lack authorization, emphasizing the critical aspect of legal entry and residency status. This classification is foundational in discussions regarding immigration policy, law enforcement, and the social implications surrounding undocumented individuals.

The other choices refer to individuals who are legally recognized within the immigration system: those born citizens enjoy citizenship by right, foreign nationals living legally in the U.S. hold valid visas, and individuals with permanent residency are granted the right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. None of those scenarios fit the definition of an unauthorized immigrant, as they all involve some form of legal status or authorization to reside in the country.