What was the process like for immigrants at Ellis Island?

Posted on Aug 21, 2025 / Travel

What was the process like for immigrants at Ellis Island?

Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island had to go through a medical exam and a legal inspection. Doctors checked for signs of illness, while inspectors asked questions about family, work, and financial status. Most people were processed within a few hours, but some had to stay longer if further checks were needed. Only about 2% of arrivals were denied entry and sent back. For those accepted, Ellis Island was both the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter.



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