The Iranian Exodus: A Thematic Analysis of the Iranian Experience of Immigrating to the United States

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the experiences of twelve Iranians immigrating to the United States and the discriminatory governmental initiatives and policies instituted on Middle Easterns, more specifically Iranian-Americans, after the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001 in the United States. Additionally, this study will provide a comprehensive policy history through Presidential Administrations beginning from the George W. Bush Administration to the Donald J. Trump Administration to provide background to Iranian immigration experiences. Utilizing a qualitative research design, data is gathered from twelve one-on-one interviews conducted over the online video platform Zoom, which culminated in the answer to the research question tested, “How have Iranian immigrants experienced U.S. immigration policies since 9/11?” Qualitative thematic analysis results indicate Iranians face a multitude of barriers in their visa application process to the United States due to the volatile relationship between Iran and the United States, including a lengthy citizenship process, difficulties travelling within and outside the country, and discrimination within the United States.