immigration statistics

http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/statistics/yearbook/2007/ois_2007_yearbook.pdf
from this site:
http://www.dhs.gov/ximgtn/statistics/publications/yearbook.shtm

these stats:
about 11.8 million unauthorized immigrants in 2007
all following stats from 2007
1,052,415 persons obtaining legal permanent residence
48,217 refugee arrivals (p. 39)
1,383,275 petitions for naturalization filed
660,477 naturalized
89,683 denied citizenship (p.52)
960,756 deportable aliens found (p.95)
319,382 aliens removed
891,390 aliens returned
"removals are the compulsory and confirmed movement of an inadmissable or deported alien out of the United States based on an order of removal."
"returns are the confirmed movement of an inadmissable or deportable alien out of the United States not based on an order of removal."
99,924 aliens removed who were criminal
219,458 non criminal aliens removed (p. 102)


http://www.hnn.us/articles/49469.html (might be helpful....)
http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis immigration mainpage


"DEPORTATION, according to the U.S. IMMIGRATION and Naturalization Service (INS), is 'the formal removal of an alien from the United States when the alien has been found removable for violating immigration laws.'Throughout the history of the United States individuals have been deported for such reasons as committing subversive acts against the government, fraudulently obtaining legal residency, and having a criminal record."
"The first step in deporting an alien is to issue an "Order to Show Cause." This document establishes the government's reasons for deporting the person in question. The alien is usually detained, although he or she can be released by posting bond. The alien is then scheduled to attend a HEARING before an immigration judge. The government is represented at these hearings by an attorney; the alien can also have legal representation, but it must be "at no expense to the government." In many jurisdictions, there are lawyers and legal agencies who will work for the alien for reduced fees or PRO BONO.The judge hears the EVIDENCE on both sides and makes a ruling, which can be appealed by both sides to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Once BIA makes this ruling, the losing side can appeal through federal courts, although the likelihood of an alien appealing would depend on his or her financial resources."
--http://www.enotes.com/everyday-law-encyclopedia/deportation


"Generally, there are nine requirements:
An applicant for naturalization must be admitted to the United States as a "lawful permanent resident" commonly referred to as one who possesses "green card" status. There is only one exception to this requirement: If an applicant has served in the U.S. armed forces during war, that person may be naturalized without first becoming a permanent resident if they were in the U.S. upon induction or enlistment into our military.
Continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years immediately preceding the applicant's filing for naturalization. Continuous residence is not the same thing as physically present here. That is, one must maintain their status as a "legal permanent resident" but not necessarily be physically inside the borders of the U.S. to accomplish that. For example, if one is overseas for a portion of this period, maintaining an address location and paying one's state and federal taxes may help ensure continuity of residence for this requirement. Also, if overseas for anymore than a few months, it may be advisable to obtain a "travel document" prior to departing. This may be done on INS Form I-131. Only three years "continuous residence" are required if the applicant is filing for naturalization based upon marriage.
Actual physical residence (within the state in which the petition is filed) during at least the three months immediately before filing for naturalization is another requirement.
Physical presence within the U.S. for a total of at least one half of the period of required continuous residence. That is, two and a half years for most applicants and one and a half years for spouses of U.S. Citizens.
The ability to read, write and speak ordinary English unless they are physically unable to do so due to a disability such as being blind or deaf, or suffer from a developmental disability or mental impairment. Those over 50 years old on the date of filing who have lived here for a total of at least 20 years after admission as a permanent resident and those who are over 55 and have been legal permanent residents for at least 15 years are also exempt from this requirement.
A basic understanding the fundamentals of U.S. history and government.
Good moral character and an affinity for the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Continuous residence (but not necessarily physical presence) in the U.S. from the date of filing the naturalization application up to the date of being sworn in as a citizen.
Applicants should be at least 18 years of age at the time of filing. Certain exceptions exist, however, for the children of other permanent residents who are seeking naturalization."
--http://immigration-law.freeadvice.com/citizenship/naturalization_requirements.htm