Immigration and Naturalization Service

United States agency

Also known as: INS

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July 16, 2026

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The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) was a U.S. federal agency responsible for immigration and naturalization services. It was formed as part of a government reorganization following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The INS's functions were largely absorbed by the newly created U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.1

Immigration has been a significant force in American history, shaping the nation into a "melting pot" of cultures. Historically, immigration patterns have shifted, with early waves from Northern and Western Europe, followed by increased immigration from Southern and Eastern Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The United States remains a primary destination for immigrants globally.23

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cybercrime
Counterfeiting and forgery
…had been missed by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Finally, a 2002 report by the GAO reported that more than 90 percent of certain types of benefit claims were fraudulent and further stated that immigration fraud was “out of control.” Partially in response to these revelations, the INS was…
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…had been missed by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Finally, a 2002 report by the GAO reported that more than 90 percent of certain types of benefit claims were fraudulent and further stated that immigration fraud was “out of control.” Partially in response to these revelations, the INS was…
Read More

Operation Wetback
Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), though most estimates put the figure closer to 300,000. Drafted by U.S. Attorney General Herbert Brownell, Jr., and vetted by Pres. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Operation Wetback arose at least partly in response to a portion of the American public that…
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Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), though most estimates put the figure closer to 300,000. Drafted by U.S. Attorney General Herbert Brownell, Jr., and vetted by Pres. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Operation Wetback arose at least partly in response to a portion of the American public that…
Read More