Immigration and Nationality Act

Introduction

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified at 8 U.S.C., is the primary body of federal immigration law in the United States. The INA governs the admission, stay, and removal of non-citizens, as well as the acquisition and loss of citizenship.

Visa System

The INA establishes a visa system with categories for family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, diversity visas, and humanitarian protection (asylum and refugee status). Numerical limits apply to most categories.

Enforcement

The Department of Homeland Security enforces immigration laws through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Removal proceedings are adjudicated by the Executive Office for Immigration Review.

Citizenship

Citizenship may be acquired by birth in the United States (jus soli) or by naturalization. Naturalization requires residency, English proficiency, knowledge of civics, and good moral character.