Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
Definition:
The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) was a government agency in the United States that was responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to immigration. It managed the process of allowing foreign-born individuals to enter the country and helped them become U.S. citizens if they met certain requirements. However, in 2003, the INS was dissolved, and its functions were transferred to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Usage Instructions:
You can use "Immigration and Naturalization Service" when talking about U.S. immigration laws or history. Since the agency is no longer in existence, you might refer to its past role or discuss current immigration agencies under the DHS.
Example Sentence:
"Before 2003, anyone wanting to immigrate to the United States had to go through the Immigration and Naturalization Service."
Advanced Usage:
In discussions about immigration policy or history, you might mention the INS in contexts like legal reforms, significant immigration cases, or statistics on immigration trends.
Word Variants:
The main term is "Immigration and Naturalization Service." Related terms include: - Immigration: The act of coming to live permanently in a foreign country. - Naturalization: The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a country.
Different Meaning:
- Immigration can refer to the general act of entering another country, while naturalization specifically refers to the process of becoming a citizen.
Synonyms:
- Immigration agency - Immigration office - Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) – the current agency that took over the INS functions.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with "Immigration and Naturalization Service," you might hear phrases related to immigration like: - "Crossing the border": Referring to entering a country. - "Going through the process": Referring to the steps one must take to apply for immigration or naturalization.