Immigrating to a new country can be an exciting but daunting experience. The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) plays a vital role in helping immigrants achieve their goals of living and working in the United States. In this article, we will delve into the basics of the INS, including what it is, its history, and its responsibilities.
What is the Immigration and Naturalization Service?
The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) was a federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States. It was created in 1933 and was dissolved in 2003, when it was merged into the Department of Homeland Security.
The INS had many responsibilities, including processing visas, handling naturalization applications, and enforcing immigration laws. It also provided education and outreach to the public on immigration matters.
The History of the INS
The INS has a long and complex history. It was created in 1933 as part of the Department of Labor and was responsible for enforcing the Immigration Act of 1924. In 1940, the INS was transferred to the Department of Justice, where it remained until its dissolution in 2003.
Throughout its history, the INS faced many challenges, including the influx of immigrants after World War II and the rise of illegal immigration in the 1970s and 1980s. The agency was also criticized for its treatment of immigrants, including the forced repatriation of Mexican-American citizens during the 1930s and the detention of Haitian refugees in the 1980s.
Responsibilities of the INS
The INS had many responsibilities related to immigration and naturalization in the United States. Some of these responsibilities included:
- Processing visas: The INS was responsible for processing visas for immigrants and non-immigrants who wanted to enter the United States.
- Handling naturalization applications: The INS also handled naturalization applications for immigrants who wanted to become citizens of the United States.
- Enforcing immigration laws: The INS was responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States. This included arresting and deporting illegal immigrants.
- Providing education and outreach: The INS provided education and outreach to the public on immigration matters. This included working with community organizations and schools to provide information on immigration laws and policies.
Conclusion
The Immigration and Naturalization Service played a vital role in helping immigrants achieve their goals of living and working in the United States. Although the agency was dissolved in 2003, its legacy lives on through the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies responsible for enforcing immigration laws. If you are an immigrant looking to come to the United States, it is important to understand the history and responsibilities of the INS, as well as the current policies and procedures in place to help you achieve your goals.
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