(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in the United States think migrant workers should have the chance to stay in the country if they comply with a set of specific requirements, according to a poll by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press. 63 per cent of respondents favour providing a way for illegal immigrants currently in the country to gain legal citizenship if they pass background checks, pay fines and have jobs.

When the word "amnesty" is included in the question, support stands at 54 per cent.

In March 2006, the Pew Hispanic Center calculated the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. at somewhere between 11.5 million to 12 million.

In May 2006, U.S. president George W. Bush addressed the nation to discuss his immigration proposals. Bush outlined five clear objectives: securing the borders, creating a temporary worker program, holding employers to account for the workers they hire, allowing illegal immigrants "who have roots" in the country to apply for citizenship, and helping newcomers assimilate into American society.

Last month, the U.S. Senate discussed a revised immigration bill, which would allow illegal immigrants to come forward and obtain a "Z visa." After paying fees, a $5,000 U.S. fine and then returning to their home countries, they could apply for permanent residency, which could be granted in eight to 13 years. The bill also includes a proposal to introduce a points system that would prioritize access to the U.S. for skilled and educated immigrants, as well as new family-reunification guidelines.

On Jun. 7, the U.S. Senate voted 45-50 on a motion to limit debate on the proposed immigration bill. On Jun. 15, Bush discussed the current state of affairs, saying, "Our responsibilities are straightforward—we've got to enforce the border, basic duty of a sovereign nation. We've got to create a lawful way for foreign workers to fill jobs that Americans are not doing. Our economy depends on them. And we must resolve the status of illegal immigrants already in our country without amnesty and without animosity, because that is the only practical way to fix the problem that has been decades in the making. We must help new immigrants assimilate. That's what has always made our nation strong. People in America must have confidence in this country to help people assimilate."

Polling Data

(Half Sample) - Thinking about immigrants who are currently living in the U.S. illegally. Do you favour or oppose providing a way for illegal immigrants currently in the country to gain legal citizenship if they pass background checks, pay fines and have jobs?

(Half Sample) - Thinking about immigrants who are currently living in the U.S. illegally. Do you favour or oppose providing amnesty to illegal immigrants currently in the country if they pass background checks, pay fines and have jobs?

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