The Emergency Quota Act: A Historical Overview of Immigration Restrictions

Definition & Meaning

The Emergency Quota Act of 1921 is a federal law in the United States designed to limit the number of immigrants allowed to enter the country each year. The Act establishes a quota system that restricts immigration to three percent of the total number of immigrants from each nationality already residing in the U.S. as of 1920. This law was enacted in response to growing concerns about immigration and aims to control the demographic makeup of the nation.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A family from Italy wishing to immigrate to the U.S. would need to consider the quota system established by the Emergency Quota Act. If the quota for Italy has been met, their application may be delayed or denied.

Example 2: A U.S. citizen's child from Mexico can immigrate without being subject to the quota restrictions, as they are exempt under the Act.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Immigration Act of 1924 Further restricted immigration and established a national origins quota. More stringent than the Emergency Quota Act, focusing on national origins.
Visa Waiver Program Allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. without a visa. Exempts eligible travelers from quota restrictions.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering immigration to the U.S., check whether your nationality is subject to quota restrictions. You may want to consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance. Additionally, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist with your immigration applications and petitions.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Year Enacted 1921
Quota Limit 3 percent of the existing immigrant population from each nationality
Exempt Groups Government officials, tourists, temporary workers, children of U.S. citizens

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The Act was created to limit immigration to the U.S. based on national origins.