Based upon a review of current literature, a comprehensive overview of the economic and social impacts on immigrants as a result of September 11th, 2001 and the erosion of legal, civil and social rights stemming from policies instituted in its aftermath are presented. Restrictionist and exclusionary social policies initiated in the United States prior to the events of September 11th are also discussed. These will be analyzed in the context of globalization and the increased migration that has been taking place since the 1990s, considering how all of these factors intersect and threaten the human rights of large numbers of immigrants. Finally current immigration policy alternatives and their implications for human rights and social inclusion are presented.