Travel and Domestic Controls

Abstract

This article examines the inspection, adjudication, Border Patrol, and investigation functions of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which embody its major operational responsibilities. The first two may be grouped under "Travel" and the others, under "Domestic Control." Investigation's mission is, essentially, to examine a factual situation which may come within the Service's jurisdiction, in order to resolve applicability of the laws. The Border Patrol's responsibility is surveillance of the United States' land and coastal boundaries to prevent surreptitious entry of aliens and apprehension of those who may have succeeded in effecting illegal entry. The work of inspection encompasses the examination and control of persons entering the United States from foreign territory through ports of entry. The adjudication function is the making of legal decisions concerning the rights, privileges, and benefits of citizens and aliens which come within the statutory requirements deafing with immigration and naturalization. Many provisions of immigration law are mandatory in language, but the Service's humanitarian approach, which accompanies administration of the law, ensures that the law's provisions are carried out with due regard for the legislative intent of justice and regard for the human lives affected by the Service's decisions.—Ed.