Which agency would approve or deny an immigrant's request for citizenship?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the agency responsible for overseeing lawful immigration to the United States. Its primary function includes processing applications for naturalization, which is the process by which an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen. USCIS evaluates the eligibility of applicants based on specific criteria, including residency requirements, knowledge of the English language, and understanding of U.S. civics, among other factors.

Once an application for citizenship is submitted, USCIS conducts interviews, background checks, and other necessary procedures to determine if the applicant meets all the requirements before granting or denying citizenship. This clear administrative role is what sets USCIS apart from other agencies involved in immigration processes, which may focus on enforcement, border security, or other aspects of immigration regulation.