Whenever we talk about US immigration whether it is about naturalization and immigration or finding out how to get a green card and applying for a green card there is always the mention of the USCIS. What is USCIS and what services does it provide?
It is a department within the Department of Homeland Security and was created by the Homeland Security Act of 2002. It comprises of approximately 15,000 employees working in over 250 offices around the world. It is responsible for the administration of naturalization and immigration functions and establishing immigration service policies.
The USCIS which was initially known as the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) came into existence in March, 01, 2003 after the INS was disbanded. It was formerly under the Department of Justice which handled matters relating to naturalization and immigration which was transitioned to the Department of Homeland Security in 2003 with the intention of improving US immigration services along with Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
So what are the services that USCIS provide?
Citizenship services and the relating naturalization process
The USCIS processes the applications for US citizenship, namely Form N-400 to determine eligibility of applicants and arranging the ceremony for successful applicants to take the oath of allegiance. But USCIS will not be involved in issuing passports or renew a passport which a naturalized citizen has the right to apply for. The US Department of State has the exclusive authority to issue or renew a passport. If you need further clarification the American Immigration Center Inc will assist you.
Permanent residency (green card) services
The applications filed by persons who apply for a green card are processed by USCIS. Whether or not to grant permanent residency to an applicant will be determined by USCIS. They also provide information on how to get a green card and the process it involves.
Working in the US
USCIS handles the process allowing immigrants from other countries to come in to the US and be lawfully employed on a temporary or long term basis depending on the type of employment and the demand in the country for such employees.
E-verify
This is an internet based system that allows employers to verify the residency status of prospective employees to avoid employing illegal immigrants. This system is operated by the USCIS under the US Department of Homeland security.
Civic Integration
USCIS assists new immigrants to integrate into society by educating them on their rights and responsibilities and the skills needed to gradually integrate into American society.
USCIS also provides a host of other services including all forms and applications for all immigration matters as well as providing information regarding all types of immigration issues.
Though USCIS provides all the information required and you still feel the process is too complicated, get the help of the American Immigration Center Inc who will provide expert advice and guide you through the process.
