Demonstration for Birthright Citizenship Protection and Immigrant Rights

## U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): An Overview **What USCIS Does** U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for administering the nation’s immigration system. Its core functions include processing immigrant and nonimmigrant petitions, applications for citizenship, asylum, work authorization, and humanitarian programs. USCIS also manages naturalization ceremonies, oversees the E-Verify employment verification system, and provides immigration-related information to the public[4]. The agency operates field offices across the United States and maintains international offices in several countries, supporting U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain others living abroad[4]. **History** USCIS traces its roots to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), which was established in 1933 to consolidate federal immigration activities. Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the U.S. government reorganized its immigration functions, and in 2003, USCIS was created as part of DHS, separating the benefits and services functions from the enforcement roles assigned to other agencies. This restructuring aimed to improve efficiency and security in the immigration system[4]. **Key Achievements** Throughout its history, USCIS has played a central role in implementing major immigration reforms, such as processing applications under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986 and the Immigration Act of 1990, which redefined the legal immigration framework and introduced new visa categories[3]. In more recent years, USCIS has managed the implementation of policies ranging from Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to the processing of refugee and asylum claims amid global crises. The agency’s adaptation to digital transformation—including online filing, case status tracking, and biometric services—reflects its ongoing efforts to modernize operations for efficiency and accessibility. **Current Status and Notable Aspects** USCIS is unique

**Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)** is a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Established by the Homeland Security Act of 2002, ICE was created in response to the 9/11 attacks to enhance national security and protect public safety. The agency's primary mission is to enforce federal laws related to customs, trade, and immigration, focusing on cross-border crime and illegal immigration[1][2][3]. **History and Structure:** ICE was formed by merging the U.S. Customs Service and the Immigration and Naturalization Service. It operates with over 20,000 staff across more than 400 global offices, with an annual budget of approximately $8 billion[3]. The agency is structured into several key directorates, including **Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO)**, which handles immigrant detention and deportation, and **Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)**, which investigates transnational crimes[1][2]. **Key Functions and Achievements:** ICE is known for its immigration enforcement efforts, particularly in interior regions of the U.S. It conducts investigations into human trafficking, terrorism, and other transnational crimes. Despite controversy over policies like family separation and detention conditions, ICE has made significant strides in combating illegal activities and protecting national security[4][6]. **Current Status and Notable Aspects:** Today, ICE continues to face challenges and controversy, particularly regarding its enforcement practices and impact on immigrant communities. The agency's actions can have profound effects on local economies and social services, as fear of ICE may deter undocumented immigrants from accessing essential services[6]. Despite these challenges, ICE remains a crucial component of U.S. immigration policy, working to balance enforcement with humanitarian concerns.