Legal Definitions - Citizenship and Immigration Service

The Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is a unit within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for enforcing the country's immigration laws. It was created in 2003 when its functions were transferred from the former Immigration and Naturalization Service of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Examples of USCIS responsibilities include:

• Processing applications for visas, green cards, and citizenship
• Conducting background checks on applicants
• Enforcing immigration laws and regulations

For example, if someone wants to become a U.S. citizen, they would need to submit an application to USCIS. USCIS would then review the application, conduct a background check, and determine if the person is eligible for citizenship.

Another example is when someone applies for a work visa. USCIS would review the application, conduct a background check, and determine if the person is eligible to work in the United States.