What do USCIS, CBP, ICE and DOS mean?

USCIS stands for “United States Citizenship and Immigration Services”. It is the agency in charge of granting visas and other immigration benefits. CBP stands for “Customs and Border Protection.” This agency was created to control the flux of persons and goods through U.S. borders. ICE stands for “Immigration and Customs Enforcement.” It is the agency in charge of enforcing immigration laws through various means, including removal operations. All three agencies are parts of the Department of Homeland Security.

DOS stands for “Department of State.” Through its U.S. consulates all over the world and the National Visa Center, the Department of State participates in processing immigrant and non-immigrant petitions.