Closing the Loop on Visa Security: A Case for Change

Abstract

This thesis presents the findings of a policy analysis conducted on the current policy governing the visa issuing function versus a policy of The U.S. Department of Homeland Security assuming operational and tactical level control of the visa issuing function from the Department of State. Responsibility for this system is currently divided between the U.S. Department of State (DOS) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This results in a duplication of effort, unclear responsibilities, an increased need for communication and collaboration between government departments, and a loss of mission focus. In an effort to increase security, streamline the immigration process, and address the above issues, this thesis recommends that the visa issuing function should be exclusively the responsibility of, and performed by, DHS.