Archive · 6 Sep 2025
USCIS to Empower Agents With Arrest, Investigation Powers
The USCIS, which handles immigration applications, is getting its own police force.
These new agents will be able to arrest people, carry guns, and look for fraud.
The aim is to catch those who are lying on applications.
Critics worry that this might scare people from applying for visas and citizenship.
The government believes this is necessary to protect the country.
USCIS is now authorized to have its own armed law enforcement agents.
Agents can arrest and prosecute for immigration violations.
The initiative will train several hundred special agents.
The change goes into effect from October.
The aim is to detect and prosecute application fraud.
- Who
- USCIS, under the Trump administration.
- What
- USCIS agents will be able to make arrests, carry firearms, and execute search and arrest warrants.
- When
- The changes come into effect from October.
- Where
- Immigration offices nationwide.
- Why
- To thoroughly fulfill national security, fraud detection, and public safety missions related to immigration adjudications
Concerns
Justification
Application Impact
Concerns
Could deter eligible people from applying.
Justification
Necessary for detecting and stopping fraudulent applications.
- Agency
- USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services)
- Action
- Empowering agents to arrest, carry firearms, execute warrants
- Initiation Date
- October (planned)
- Agent Focus
- Investigating immigration fraud
