The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that select officers in the agency will have expanded authority. While this may not seem significant, it is a major shift in how certain immigration matters, including violations, will be investigated and handled.
Before the recent change, there were limitations in place regarding how immigration fraud could be investigated beyond the use of basic administrative procedures. Under the new authority, agents will be able to execute search and arrest warrants and carry firearms. In some cases, they may be able to handle surveillance with Homeland Security Investigations.
National security is the focus
These newly empowered agents were specifically focused on suspected immigration benefit fraud, marriage fraud, and threats that are related to national security. It’s not a green light for broad immigration enforcement. For example, if someone is suspected of submitting false documentation to gain a visa, these agents may now have the power to investigate it more thoroughly and directly than they did previously.
This change underscores the importance of submitting truthful, complete and well-documented information in applications. Any attempt to mislead USCIS may now be met with a criminal investigation instead of just administrative consequences.
Anyone who’s applying for immigration status should ensure that they understand exactly what they’re required to do and provide. It may be beneficial to work with someone who’s remaining abreast of the changes to boost the likelihood of compliance.