Immigration plays a vital role in shaping the United States as a nation of diversity, opportunity, and innovation. For those navigating the complex journey of immigration — whether for work, family, asylum, or citizenship — the key government agency overseeing most of the process is the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

In this in-depth guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about USCIS: what it is, what it does, how it oper

ates, and how to engage with its many services. Whether you're an immigrant, employer, attorney, or simply curious about the immigration system, this comprehensive overview will help you understand the role of USCIS in the American immigration landscape.

What Is US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)?

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the primary government agency responsible for administering legal immigration to the United States. Operating under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), USCIS handles everything from visa petitions and green card applications to naturalization and humanitarian programs.

USCIS was established in 2003, following the Homeland Security Act of 2002, which dissolved the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Its creation was part of a broader reorganization of immigration functions across three DHS agencies:

  • USCIS – Manages immigration benefits and services

  • ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) – Focuses on immigration enforcement

  • CBP (Customs and Border Protection) – Handles border security and customs

The Mission of USCIS

According to its official mission statement, USCIS is dedicated to administering the nation's lawful immigration system, safeguarding its integrity, and providing effective customer service to immigrants and the public. Its work touches nearly every aspect of the legal immigration process in the United States.

Core values of USCIS include:

  • Integrity

  • Respect

  • Innovation

  • Collaboration

  • Accountability

  • Vigilance

Key Functions and Responsibilities of USCIS

USCIS performs a wide range of essential services. Some of its most important responsibilities include:

1. Processing Immigration Applications and Petitions

USCIS handles millions of immigration applications each year. These include:

  • Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident) applications

  • Work visa petitions (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)

  • Family-sponsored visa petitions

  • Asylum and refugee applications

  • Adjustment of status

  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

2. Naturalization and Citizenship Services

One of the most prominent functions of USCIS is guiding lawful permanent residents through the naturalization process — the pathway to becoming a U.S. citizen.

Services include:

  • Processing N-400 applications for naturalization

  • Administering civics and English tests

  • Conducting interviews and background checks

  • Hosting naturalization ceremonies for new citizens

3. Issuing Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)

Immigrants and certain non-immigrants in the U.S. often need permission to work. USCIS issues EAD cards (also called work permits), which authorize employment legally.

4. Providing Humanitarian Programs and Protections

USCIS plays a vital role in offering protection and relief to vulnerable populations through programs such as:

  • Asylum for those fleeing persecution

  • Refugee resettlement

  • Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

  • U visa and T visa for victims of crime and human trafficking

  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for individuals from designated crisis countries

5. Fraud Detection and National Security

Through its Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS), USCIS investigates suspicious cases and ensures that immigration benefits are not exploited by fraudulent actors or security threats.

How to Interact with USCIS

Whether you're filing an application or seeking assistance, USCIS offers several ways to interact with their services:

✅ Online Account System (myUSCIS)

Applicants can create a myUSCIS account to file applications online, receive updates, and track case status in real time.

✅ Field Offices and Application Support Centers (ASCs)

USCIS operates over 200 field offices and ASCs across the U.S. These locations handle interviews, biometrics appointments, and naturalization ceremonies.

✅ Contact Center

USCIS provides phone support via the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. While reaching a live agent can be challenging, automated services offer case updates and basic information.

✅ InfoPass Appointments

In certain cases, applicants can schedule an in-person appointment at a local field office to resolve urgent matters or get help with complex issues.

Common USCIS Forms and What They Do

Here are some of the most frequently used forms processed by USCIS:

Form Number Purpose
Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (Family-based green card)
Form I-485 Adjustment of Status (green card application from within the U.S.)
Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization (EAD)
Form I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (employment-based green card)
Form N-400 Application for Naturalization (citizenship)
Form I-131 Application for Travel Document (Advance Parole, Re-entry Permit)
Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (financial sponsor form for family-based immigration)
 

Filling out these forms correctly and completely is crucial for successful processing.

USCIS Processing Times and Backlogs

USCIS receives millions of applications annually, and processing times vary significantly depending on the form, the service center, and case complexity.

In recent years, growing backlogs have affected everything from green card approvals to work permits and naturalization. Applicants can check their case processing time online through the USCIS website.

To manage expectations and ensure timely decisions:

  • File as early as possible

  • Use premium processing where available

  • Respond promptly to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

Immigration Reforms and USCIS

USCIS policies often shift depending on presidential administrations and legislative reforms. Over the years, changes have included:

  • Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

  • Public charge rule revisions

  • Fee increases (some proposed, some blocked)

  • Restoration of processing pathways for asylum and refugee cases

  • Digital transformation and online filing options

Staying informed through the official USCIS Newsroom and updates is important for applicants and professionals alike.

USCIS Fees and Fee Waivers

Most applications and petitions come with filing fees. These can range from $85 (biometrics) to over $1,000 (green card applications). USCIS is largely funded by these user fees.

However, applicants with financial hardship may apply for fee waivers using Form I-912, depending on eligibility criteria.

Tips for Working with USCIS Successfully

  1. Submit complete, well-documented applications.

    Incomplete applications lead to delays or denials.

  2. Keep copies of all documents.

    USCIS does not return original documents unless specified.

  3. Stay updated on case status.

    Use your USCIS online account or the case status tracker.

  4. Respond to RFEs and NOIDs (Notices of Intent to Deny) quickly and thoroughly.

  5. Consider legal help.

    Immigration attorneys or accredited representatives can help ensure compliance with USCIS rules and avoid costly mistakes.

How USCIS Differs from Other Immigration Agencies

Understanding the difference between USCIS and other federal immigration bodies is essential:

Agency Primary Role
USCIS Administers immigration benefits and applications
ICE Enforces immigration laws, conducts investigations and deportations
CBP Manages border security and customs, inspects people and goods entering the U.S.
DOS (State Department) Issues visas through U.S. consulates and embassies abroad
 

USCIS and the Future of U.S. Immigration

In the coming years, USCIS is expected to:

  • Expand online services and paperless processing

  • Implement AI tools to speed up processing and detect fraud

  • Focus on customer experience improvements

  • Increase transparency in case tracking and policy changes

As immigration remains a key part of America's future, USCIS continues to adapt and evolve to meet the demands of a changing world.

Final Thoughts

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the heart of America's immigration system — reviewing applications, offering humanitarian relief, and welcoming new citizens into the fold. While navigating its processes can be overwhelming, understanding its mission and services can make a world of difference for applicants and their families.

Whether you're applying for a green card, renewing your work permit, or preparing for your citizenship ceremony, USCIS is your essential partner in achieving the American dream.

Need help with a USCIS application or immigration petition?

Consult with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited service provider to ensure your journey is on the right path.