The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s immigration attorney near me (abogado de inmigracion near me) processes. With millions of applications processed annually, the USCIS is a key institution for anyone seeking to live, work, or study in the United States. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, exploring naturalization, or securing a visa, here’s what you need to know about the USCIS and its functions.

What Is the USCIS?

The USCIS is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is responsible for overseeing the lawful immigration process, from assessing applications for temporary residency to granting U.S. citizenship. Formed in 2003 as part of efforts to enhance national security post-9/11, the USCIS replaced the immigration role of the now-defunct Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

With over 20,000 employees spread across 200 offices globally, the USCIS ensures that immigration complies with U.S. laws and policies, while supporting the nation’s diversity goals.

Key Statistics at a Glance

To understand the scale and importance of USCIS, take a look at these remarkable statistics from fiscal year 2022:

• 9.3 million immigration benefit requests were received.

• 1 million individuals were granted lawful permanent residency (Green Card holders).

• 855,000 new U.S. citizens were naturalized, the highest number in over a decade.

• Over 41 million visits were recorded at USCIS application support centers and offices.

These numbers underline the vast reach of USCIS operations and its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.

Main Responsibilities of USCIS

1. Green Cards and Permanent Residency

The USCIS processes Green Card applications for individuals seeking permanent residency. This includes family-based, employment-based, and humanitarian paths, such as those for asylum seekers or refugees. With over one million Green Cards approved last year, the agency is a gateway to a stable future in the U.S.

2. Naturalization and Citizenship

For those aiming to become U.S. citizens, the USCIS manages naturalization applications, which involve demonstrating eligibility and passing required tests in U.S. civics and English. The record-breaking 855,000 naturalizations in 2022 illustrate the agency’s commitment to turning immigration dreams into reality.

3. Non-immigrant Visa Applications

USCIS is responsible for issuing temporary visas, such as H-1B for skilled workers or F-1 for students. Annually, hundreds of thousands of applicants rely on the agency for various non-immigrant visa statuses.

4. Humanitarian Programs

The agency implements several humanitarian programs, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and U-Visas for crime victims, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive protection under U.S. law.

5. Form Processing and Petitions

More than 50 types of forms are processed by USCIS, including petitions for relatives, work authorizations, and renewals. The efficiency of form processing is critical in keeping up with the high volume of applications and ensuring timely responses.

Partnering with an Immigration Attorney for Success

Navigating the complex web of USCIS processes can be overwhelming, especially when a rejected application could mean starting over or facing deportation. Hiring an experienced immigration attorney can significantly improve your chances of success and save you time and resources. With their knowledge of current policies, deadlines, and potential obstacles, they provide valuable guidance to help you achieve your immigration goals. Don’t hesitate to seek their support today!

Conclusion

The USCIS plays a vital role in the immigration process, with millions of applications processed annually. From Green Cards to naturalization and humanitarian programs, the agency is responsible for various aspects of immigration. However, navigating these processes can be challenging, which is why partnering with an experienced immigration attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. With their expertise and guidance, you can navigate the complex landscape of U.S. immigration and achieve your goals. Don’t hesitate to seek their support today!