US IMMIGRATION LAW

US immigration law relates to a a comprehensive body of federal laws that govern issues of foreigners coming into the United States, including admission, exclusion, deportation, and naturalization of aliens.

Before September 2002, the agency that was charged with overseeing immigration issues was the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). In September 2002, Congress passed and President Bush signed the Homeland Security Act, transferring the powers of the INS to the Department of Homeland Security.

The enforcement powers of the INS are now with the Directorate of Border and Transportation Security. The immigration service functions of the INS are now under the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS). Both of these agencies are within the new Department for Homeland Security.

Coming to and staying in the United States brings many responsibilities and obligations. There are procedural laws and requirements that must be followed for those who wish to enter and stay in the United States for any length of time.

Immigration laws regulate how an individual from abroad may qualify for a visa and under what circumstances that individual can be deported. There are many different kinds of temporary and permanent visas.

Those already in the United States also have a series of immigration options. Large portions of immigrants who legally reside within the United States have a green card, or permanent visa. While those with green cards may seek to be citizens, they must also stay away from activities that may bring deportation.

Courts devoted to handling immigration issues will also hire attorneys to assist judges. In recent years, the legislature has been in the process of reforming immigration laws, and some members of Congress and other legislators have hired immigration lawyers for assistance.

Private firms also represent clients ranging from those seeking citizenship, new citizens working to bring their families into the country, aliens with issues related to employment or education visas, and/or companies who wish to recruit and hire internationally.

Some in-house corporate counsel may deal with other immigration issues if the company they work for does business internationally or has other international concerns.