Key U.S. Code (USC) sections in Title 8 governing illegal immigration include 8 U.S.C. § 1325 (improper entry), 8 U.S.C. § 1326 (illegal re-entry), and 8 U.S.C. § 1324 (bringing in/harboring). These laws criminalize unlawful entry, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, particularly for repeat offenders or those assisting illegal entry.
Core USC Sections Addressing Illegal Immigration
8 U.S.C. § 1325 (Improper Entry by Alien): Criminalizes entering the U.S. at unauthorized times or places, eluding examination, or using fraudulent documents.
Penalties: Fines and/or up to 6 months in federal prison for the first offense; up to 2 years for subsequent offenses.
8 U.S.C. § 1326 (Reentry of Removed Aliens): Makes it a felony for any alien previously deported or removed to re-enter, attempt to re-enter, or be found in the U.S. without authorization.
Penalties: Fines and/or up to 2 years in prison (or higher if the original removal was due to criminal conviction).
8 U.S.C. § 1324 (Bringing in and Harboring Certain Aliens): Prohibits smuggling, transporting, or harboring individuals known to be in the U.S. illegally.
8 U.S.C. § 1324a (Unlawful Employment of Aliens): Prohibits employers from knowingly hiring unauthorized workers and mandates civil penalties for violations.
