Who Is Jose Antonio Vargas? Age, Biography and Wiki
Jose Antonio Vargas was born on February 3, 1981, making him 44 years old as of 2025. A prominent Filipino-American journalist and immigration activist, Vargas has made significant contributions to the conversation on immigration in the United States. His advocacy work is well-known, particularly after he publicly revealed his undocumented status in 2011. Vargas's journey has been documented through his writing, public speaking, and various multimedia projects, influencing public perception and policy regarding undocumented immigrants.
| Occupation | Journalist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 3, 1981 |
| Age | 44 Years |
| Birth Place | Antipolo, Philippines |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | Philippines |
Popularity
Jose Antonio Vargas's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
In 2025, Jose Antonio Vargas stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall. His weight fluctuates around 150 pounds (68 kg). He maintains a fit physique that complements his active lifestyle, often engaging in various advocacy and speaking events.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Jose Antonio Vargas's personal life remains relatively private. He has not publicly disclosed any details about his current boyfriend or girlfriend. Focused primarily on his career and advocacy work, Vargas has often shared insights into his upbringing in a family that molded his passionate dedication to social justice.
In 1993, when Vargas was twelve, his mother sent him to live with his grandparents in the U.S. without obtaining authorization for him to stay in the country permanently; his grandparents were naturalized U.S. citizens. In Mountain View, California, he attended Crittenden Middle School and Mountain View High School.
He did not learn of his immigration status until 1997 when, at age 16, he attempted to obtain a California driver's license with identity documents provided by his family that he then discovered were fraudulent. He kept his immigration status secret, pursuing his education and fitting in as an American with the help of friends and teachers.
He used a Filipino passport and false documents that included a green card and a driver's license to help him avoid deportation.
Net Worth and Salary
Jose Antonio Vargas's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. His income primarily stems from his work as a journalist, author, and activist. Vargas has also been involved in various projects that aim to educate and inspire individuals about immigration rights and social justice.
Career, Business and Investments
Vargas's career has evolved significantly since he first gained national attention in 2011. He has contributed to major publications such as The Washington Post and The New York Times, where he has penned essays and opinion pieces focusing on immigration. In addition to his journalistic work, Vargas founded Define American, a nonprofit organization that promotes conversations about immigration and citizenship in America. His meaningful impact on societal discussions around immigration continues to define his career.
Vargas is the founder of Define American, a nonprofit organization intended to open up dialogue about the criteria people use to determine who is an American. He has said: "I am an American. I just don't have the right papers."
Social Network
Jose Antonio Vargas actively engages with his audience through various social media platforms, including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. His online presence allows him to connect directly with supporters, share updates about his advocacy work, and promote discussions surrounding immigration policy. Vargas has a following in the tens of thousands, reflecting his influence in the community and beyond.
Jose Antonio Vargas (born February 3, 1981) is a journalist, filmmaker, and immigration rights activist.
Born in the Philippines and raised in the United States from the age of twelve, he was part of The Washington Post team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting in 2008 for coverage of the Virginia Tech shooting online and in print.
Vargas has also worked for the San Francisco Chronicle, the Philadelphia Daily News, and The Huffington Post. He wrote, produced, and directed the autobiographical 2013 film Documented, which CNN Films broadcast in June 2014.
Education
Vargas attended the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he studied political science. His education laid the foundation for his professional career in journalism and advocacy, equipping him with essential skills to confront and challenge the complexities surrounding immigration issues.
* 2019: The new Jose Antonio Vargas Elementary School opened in the Mountain View, California, school district where Vargas attended middle and high school.
