An illegal immigrant is an individual who enters into a country in violation of the immigration laws of that destination country. An illegal immigrant is therefore a foreign citizen who illegally crosses a boarder or enters into a country legally and overstays their visa to gain residency and employment in that desired country. This is a growing problem, particularly within the United States, whereby individuals are collecting benefits and gaining rights that are intended only for legal US citizens. Illegal immigrants can face deportation if discovered as they are violating government and legal mandates. The rate of illegal immigrants is on the rise in spite of increased border control.