It can happen through chance, when they find their legal status runs out or if their application for asylum is turned down. Others have entered the EU with irregular documentation or, in some cases, without undergoing border control. The study shows that the motivations of irregular immigrants vary and can include flight from persecution or from torture, conditions which qualify people for asylum status. However, through fear that their legitimate claims will not be recognised or for other reasons, they do not apply for asylum. Others flee their countries because of a desire to escape grinding poverty.
Personal relations are also an important reason for irregular status.
For example, the desire to maintain relationships built up during what was initially planned as a temporary stay, or a desire to join family members already in the host country and other reasons. While the situation of irregular immigrants is variable, the research shows some common characteristics of the lives of those who are irregular immigrants. These common characteristics were found in all three countries where the research was carried out despite the different historical and legal backgrounds as well as the diverse labour market structures of the countries. Many irregular migrants owe money to traffickers and this increases their vulnerability to involvement in crime. The research does not support the perception that irregular immigrants are involved in serious crime.