What term describes U.S. policies that favor certain immigrant groups over others?

The term that best describes U.S. policies that favor certain immigrant groups over others is "Selective immigration policies." Such policies are designed to prefer specific nationalities, skill sets, or family connections, reflecting a decision-making process that prioritizes certain demographics over others. This can happen through quotas, visa preferences, or other regulations that create a hierarchy among immigrants based on various criteria.

Selectivity can be seen in historical contexts, such as the Immigration Act of 1924, which established quotas based on national origin, favoring immigrants from Western and Northern Europe while severely limiting those from Southern and Eastern Europe, as well as other parts of the world. These selective approaches shape the makeup of immigrant communities and influence who has access to immigrant status or citizenship in the United States.

Understanding this term emphasizes how immigration policies can reflect broader social, cultural, and political values, showcasing how biases can influence the legal landscape of immigration in the U.S.