USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services)
📊 Explore USCIS data →U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the component of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for administering the nation's lawful immigration system. USCIS processes millions of immigration applications and petitions each year, covering virtually every type of immigration benefit — from green cards and naturalization to work permits, travel documents, asylum, and humanitarian programs.
USCIS is distinct from the other immigration agencies. While ICE handles enforcement and removal, and EOIR (within the DOJ) operates the immigration courts, USCIS is the "benefits" agency — it adjudicates applications from individuals seeking immigration status or benefits. The agency operates through a network of field offices, service centers, and asylum offices across the country.
Key USCIS functions include: processing family-based and employment-based immigrant petitions (I-130, I-140), adjudicating adjustment of status applications (I-485) for green cards, conducting naturalization interviews and ceremonies, processing work permits (EADs), handling affirmative asylum applications (those filed proactively, not in court), administering DACA renewals, managing TPS designations and applications, and conducting credible fear and reasonable fear interviews.
USCIS is largely funded by filing fees rather than congressional appropriations, which creates a unique dynamic — the agency's budget depends on the volume and type of applications it processes. This fee-funded model has led to periodic funding crises when application volumes drop or surge unexpectedly.
USCIS faces its own massive backlog, with over 8 million pending applications as of recent counts. Processing times for many application types have stretched to years — naturalization applications that once took 6 months can now take 18-24 months, and employment-based green card processing can take even longer. These delays have significant real-world impacts on applicants' lives, employment, and travel.
Related Terms
EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review)
The Department of Justice agency that houses all U.S. immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals. EOIR employs the immigration judges who hear removal cases. It is separate from USCIS (which handles applications) and ICE (which handles enforcement).
ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
The DHS agency responsible for interior immigration enforcement, detention, and removal. ICE attorneys serve as the "prosecution" in immigration court, arguing for the deportation of respondents.
Credible Fear Interview
A screening interview conducted by a USCIS asylum officer to determine if someone has a "significant possibility" of establishing eligibility for asylum. Those who pass are placed in removal proceedings with the opportunity to apply for asylum.
LPR (Lawful Permanent Resident)
A foreign national authorized to live and work permanently in the United States, commonly known as a "green card holder." LPRs can be placed in removal proceedings if they commit certain crimes or fraud.
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
A policy allowing certain individuals who came to the U.S. as children to receive renewable two-year work permits and protection from deportation. Does not provide a path to citizenship or permanent resident status.