INS Defends Naturalization Process

Immigration and Naturalization Service, Office of the Commissioner

October 29, 1996

Dear Governor,

In the last several weeks, mischaracterizations have been made about newly naturalized U.S. citizens. I would like to take this opportunity to set the record straight and update you on the unprecedented review we are undertaking to ensure the integrity of our citizenship program.

The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) deports criminals, it doesn’t naturalize them. In fact, we have removed a record 100,000 criminals in the last three years, in addition to more than 60,000 non- criminal aliens, and hundreds of thousands who were arrested by INS agents and removed without the need for formal INS proceedings. We will continue to increase dramatically our removal actions in the coming year.

INS processed a record 1.3 million applications for citizenship this year. Citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and the INS has continued to strengthen the naturalization process to ensure that only qualified applicants are granted citizenship. In fact, INS denied 18% - which is at or above traditional levels and represents 240,000 applicants - because they failed to meet our citizenship standards.

As you know, every applicant submits fingerprints which are sent to the FBI to determine if the applicant has an FBI record. It is this context in which misleading assertions and gross errors are being made about the criminal character of recently naturalized citizens. In fact, FBI director Louis Freeh cautioned such mischaracterizations in recent letters to Rep. William Zeliff: “The mere existence of such a record does not mean the person at issue has a criminal conviction. Those…drawing that inference are doing so incorrectly.

The INS is currently reviewing the cases of all individuals with FBI fingerprint record information. Many baseless numbers have been recklessly thrown about, but the important point to remember is this: if citizenship was granted improperly in any case, INS will revoke naturalization as swiftly as possible through a new expedited process.

There is no evidence that significant numbers of unqualified individuals have been or are being granted citizenship. Those who persist in making reckless and divisive mischaracterizations are being deeply unfair to the millions of dedicated and patriotic new Americans who have contributed so much to the vibrancy and spirit of our society.

Sincerely,

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Doris Meissner
Commissioner