The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) is an American think tank founded in 1985 as a spin-off from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), established by historian Otis L. Graham Jr. and John Tanton, a controversial figure associated with eugenics and white nationalism. CIS is dedicated to researching the economic, social, and fiscal impacts of immigration on the United States, with strong advocacy for significantly lower immigration levels. It is part of a network of anti-immigration organizations created by Tanton, including FAIR and NumbersUSA. CIS describes itself as an independent, non-profit research entity, but its work aligns with nativist and restrictionist viewpoints, favoring policies that drastically reduce both legal and illegal immigration. The organization produces reports and analyses frequently cited by restrictionist politicians, media outlets, and commentators (including VDARE), influencing conservative immigration policy debates. CIS has been criticized by watchdog groups like the Southern Poverty Law Center for promoting anti-immigrant agendas, ties to far-right groups, methodological biases in its research, and amplifying narratives that critics argue stoke xenophobia and misinformation. It has been involved in high-profile initiatives such as Project 2025, a conservative policy framework aimed at reshaping federal government operations. The think tank's output continues to inform anti-immigration activism and legislation, positioning it as a key player in networks advocating for stringent border controls and reduced refugee admissions.