On March 1, 2003, service and benefit functions of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) transitioned into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS is responsible for the administration of immigration and naturalization adjudication functions and establishing immigration services policies and priorities. These functions include:

· adjudication of immigrant visa petitions;

· adjudication of naturalization petitions;

· adjudication of asylum and refugee applications;

· adjudications performed at the service centers, and

· all other adjudications on applications submitted to USCIS.

Fifteen thousand (15,000) federal employees and contractors working in approximately 250 Headquarters and field offices around the world comprise the USCIS.

FAQS

I am a permanent resident.  When can I apply for citizenship?

You may be able to apply for naturalization if you are at least 18 years of age and have been a permanent resident of the U.S.:

• For at least 5 years; or

• For at least 3 years during which time you have been, and continue to be, married to and living in marriage with your U.S. citizen husband or wife; or

• Have honorable service in the U.S. military.

Certain spouses of U.S. citizens and members of the military may be able to file for naturalization sooner than noted above.

I have submitted an application, but my fingerprint and Interagency Border Inspection Services (IBIS) checks are still pending.  Can you expedite my case?

Unfortunately, I am not able to expedite background checks.  However, I would be happy to contact the USCIS to request updates on the status of your case.

I have an emergency and need my case processed faster.  What information do you need to help me?

The USCIS reviews expedite requests on a case-by-case basis and are granted at the discretion of the Director.  The criteria are as follows:

· Severe financial loss to a company or individual

· Extreme emergent situation

· Humanitarian situation

· Nonprofit organization in furtherance of the cultural and social interests of the United States

· Department of Defense for a national interest situation

· Compelling interest of the USCIS

If you have a compelling reason to expedite your case, please provide relevant documentation to my District Office.