Description: The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) is a Washington, D.C.–based policy research organization and think tank founded in 1985 that produces analysis, testimony, and commentary on the social, economic, fiscal, security, and demographic effects of immigration. CIS advocates for substantially lower levels of legal immigration and for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. Its work is used by policymakers and media, and its findings and methods have been supported by some policymakers while contested by other scholars and watchdog groups. Type: Non-profit public policy research institute / think tank (tax-exempt 501(c)(3)). Policies: Research and advocacy emphasizing lower overall immigration levels; tighter border and interior enforcement; more restrictive visa and admission policies; limits on public-benefits access for noncitizens; analysis of immigration's fiscal and labor-market impacts; opposition to broad legalization or amnesty programs. Funding: Primarily funded by tax-deductible donations from individuals and foundations, plus revenue from publications and events; the organization states it does not publicly disclose donor identities and provides audited financials and IRS filings on request. Affiliates: Historically linked to the restrictionist immigration network that includes the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) and NumbersUSA; prominent individuals associated with CIS include founder Otis L. Graham and longtime executive director Mark Krikorian; founder John Tanton played an early role in creating the broader network of restrictionist groups.
