Which Country is the Most Common Entry Point for Illegal Immigration to the EU?

The majority of people trying to illegally enter the European Union do so through Greece. 88 percent of all illegal attempts to cross into Europe are through Greece. Attempt can come from the water side, with immigrants trying to access Greece through the Aegean Sea and from the northern border with Turkey. Only about 13 percent of those who manage to cross stay in Greece, however.

More Immigrant Facts:

• The number of illegal immigrants trying to enter Europe decreased in 2009 by 33 percent. 106,000 were caught at the borders, compared to 160,000 in 2008.


• Much of the reduction in illegal immigration attempts are attributed to the economic downturn and loss of available jobs.


• The Center for Immigration Studies estimates there were 10.8 million illegal immigrants in the US in 2009, a decline from 12.5 million in 2007.