About Immigration & Naturalization Services
The foundations of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Services were put into place in 1891. The organization handled all legal and illegal immigration practices, as well as the process to naturalize foreign peoples. In March 2003, the agency was abolished and replaced by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service, which established the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
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Function
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The Immigration and Naturalization Service was established to enforce the laws of naturalization and handle illegal immigration into the United States. It also was responsible for preventing ineligible people from securing benefits such as social security and unemployment.
Significance
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The Immigration and Naturalization Service investigated whether a person or group of people were illegal immigrants. It detained said individuals and, if needed, deported them to their home country.
Features
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The person in charge of Immigration and Naturalization Services was a commissioner appointed by the President of the United States. This person reported directly to the Attorney General, the head of the Department of Justice.
Considerations
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Immigration and Naturalization Services in the United States also worked very closely with the United Nations, State Department, and the Department of Health and Human Services. This was necessary for political and humanitarian reasons.
History
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The Immigration and Naturalization Services were established originally as part of the Treasury Department. Immigrants coming into New York harbor were directed to Ellis Island and charged a tax of 50 cents upon entry to the United States.
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- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
