Boosts the State Economy
Immigrant healthcare workers contribute $14.3 billion to New York's GDP every year.
Fellowship on Immigrant Integration
Spanning backgrounds from across the globe, fellows bring exceptional research skills and regional diversity to Institute’s ongoing work
Collectively, the fellows’ projects will support IIIRP’s broader efforts to strengthen integration pathways for foreign-born residents in New York
The Economic and Demographic Impact of Immigrant Healthcare Workers in New York
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Key Takeaway
Immigrant healthcare workers are vital to New York's healthcare system, economy, and communities.
By the Numbers
1 in 3
healthcare workers in NYC is foreign-born
220K+
immigrant healthcare workers in New York State
$14.3B
contribution to New York State's GDP annually
45%
of immigrant healthcare workers are age 55+
Where Immigrant Healthcare Workers Work
46%
Hospitals
22%
Long-Term Care Facilities
18%
Home Health & Community Care
14%
Other Settings (Clinics, Labs, etc.)
What This Knowledge Capital Makes Possible
Jobs and Tax Contributions
They pay $1.4 billion in state and local taxes annually and support jobs across industries.
Strengthens Local Communities
Immigrant healthcare workers live, spend, and invest in the communities they serve.
Addressing Critical Needs
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Rural and Underserved Communities
Long-Term Care and Behavioral Health
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities
Demographic Impact
A large share of immigrant healthcare workers are nearing retirement age — creating urgency for workforce renewal to sustain care capacity.
Aging Workforce
Many current immigrant healthcare workers are age 55+.
Act Now to Sustain Care
Planning and investment today are essential to protect New York's health system for tomorrow.
Policy Implications
Protect and Expand Work Authorization
Ensure immigrant healthcare workers can live and work in the communities where they are needed most.
Invest in Credential Recognition
Streamline pathways to license recognition and professional advancement.
Support Workforce Development
Provide training, language support, and career pathways for immigrant healthcare workers.
Strengthen Data Collection
Improve data to better understand and address workforce needs.
Conclusion
Data warns of future workforce pressures, noting that more than 45 percent of immigrant workers in home care are age 55 or older — underscoring the urgency for sustained investment in immigrant workforce pipelines.
About the Institute
The Institute on Immigrant Integration Research and Policy advances evidence-based research to improve the social, economic and civic integration of New York State's more than 4.5 million immigrants.