Health Impacts of Restrictive Migration Policies: A Qualitative Study of Highly Educated Iranian Immigrants and International Students in the U.S.

Abstract

Immigrants constitute a substantial portion of the United States population and represent a significant minoritized group whose health is impacted by the country's migration policies as social determinants of health. This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach to document and explore the lived experiences of highly educated Iranian immigrants and International Students within the context of U.S. migration policies while considering the Social Determinants of Health framework. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 participants. Reflexive thematic analysis of the data revealed four major themes (1) entry and reentry visa restrictions for Iranians; (2) the emotional and social impact of the U.S. Travel Ban; (3) family separation and emotional distress; and (4) mental health impacts of immigration uncertainty. Findings highlight significant challenges faced by this population, including extended family separations, career uncertainties, and psychological distress. Participants reported heightened anxiety, insomnia, and feelings of isolation, aligning with research on migration-related mental health disparities. This research contributes to the limited literature on the experiences of Iranian immigrants in the U.S. and has implications for minoritized population health and policy reforms aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of immigration-related stress.