Immigration and Nationality Act

Definition

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is a comprehensive federal law enacted in 1952 that governs immigration and citizenship in the United States. It established a system that categorizes immigrants based on their nationality, skills, and family relationships, significantly influencing cultural diversity and changing demographics within the country. The INA has undergone several amendments, adapting to the evolving needs of American society and its approach to immigration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The INA was originally passed in 1952 but has been amended multiple times, with significant changes occurring in 1965 and 1990 to address evolving immigration patterns.
2. One major change in 1965 was the elimination of the national origins quota system, which favored immigrants from Northern and Western Europe.
3. The act introduced family reunification as a primary principle for immigration, allowing U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor relatives for immigration.
4. The INA established various categories for visas, including those for employment-based immigration and humanitarian relief for refugees and asylees.
5. The act's provisions have led to increased cultural diversity in the U.S., with significant numbers of immigrants coming from Asia, Latin America, and Africa since its revisions.

Review Questions

• How did the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 change the landscape of immigration in the United States?
  • The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 significantly transformed U.S. immigration by abolishing the national origins quota system that had favored European immigrants. This change opened the door for a more diverse range of immigrants from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, ultimately reshaping the cultural fabric of American society. The focus shifted towards family reunification and skills-based categories, reflecting a more inclusive approach to immigration.
• Discuss the impact of family reunification provisions within the Immigration and Nationality Act on U.S. demographics.
  • The family reunification provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act have had a profound impact on U.S. demographics by allowing citizens and permanent residents to sponsor relatives for immigration. This policy has contributed to the growth of immigrant communities, particularly among Hispanic, Asian, and African populations. As families have settled in the U.S., they have brought diverse cultures, traditions, and languages, enriching American society as a whole.
• Evaluate how the Immigration and Nationality Act reflects broader societal attitudes toward immigration over time.
  • The Immigration and Nationality Act illustrates changing societal attitudes toward immigration throughout American history. Initially, it enforced restrictive quotas favoring certain nationalities but later evolved to prioritize family reunification and skilled workers, showing a shift toward a more open approach. The act's amendments over time reflect America's fluctuating views on immigration, illustrating both its economic needs and its commitment to diversity. This evolution mirrors broader discussions about race, nationality, and human rights within the context of American values.

Related terms

Green Card: A permit allowing a foreign national to live and work permanently in the United States.

Refugee Act: A law passed in 1980 that established a formal process for admitting refugees into the U.S., reflecting the country's commitment to humanitarian efforts.

Diversity Visa Lottery: A program that provides visas to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States, aimed at promoting diversity.