The full form of INS can refer to a few different entities, depending on the context. Here are the most common:
- Immigration and Naturalization Service: This was a U.S. government agency.
- International News Service: This was a news agency that merged into United Press International.
Immigration and Naturalization Service
The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) was a former agency of the U.S. Department of Justice responsible for enforcing immigration laws. It existed until March 1, 2003, when its functions were transferred to three new agencies within the Department of Homeland Security:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
The INS was primarily responsible for:
- Processing applications for visas, green cards, and citizenship.
- Enforcing immigration laws within the United States.
- Detaining and deporting individuals who violated immigration laws.
International News Service
The International News Service (INS) was a major news-gathering agency founded by William Randolph Hearst. In 1958, it merged with United Press to form United Press International (UPI), a significant player in the global news landscape.
Summary:
The abbreviation INS can represent either the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service or the International News Service, a historical news agency. The specific meaning depends on the context.
