Before September 2002, the agency that was charged with overseeing immigration issues was the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). In September 2002, the Homeland Security Act became law, transferring the powers of the INS to the Department of Homeland Security. The immigration service functions of the INS are now under the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS).

What is an "Alien?"
An alien is an individual born in a foreign country that has not been naturalized (made a U.S. citizen) and is still a subject of that foreign country.

Nonimmigrant Visas
Nonimmigrant visas are available to foreigners coming to the United States for a short-term visit. Nonimmigrant visas are commonly given to many groups, including:

• Students
• Business people
• Tourists

Entry into the United States is often difficult, whether or not you have a visa. A qualified immigration attorney can help you prepare for your entrance, and ensure you are not turned away at the border. An immigration attorney can also help you with the BCIS's detailed procedural rules when applying for a visa.

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