What is the purpose of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)?

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) serves the fundamental purpose of regulating immigration and citizenship in the United States. This law outlines the procedures for how individuals can enter the country, what categories of visas are available, the criteria for obtaining them, and the pathways to citizenship for immigrants. It establishes a legal framework that governs the admission of both immigrants and non-immigrants, ensuring that the processes are conducted in a structured manner.

The INA addresses various aspects of immigration, including employment-based and family-based visas, refugee admissions, and the naturalization process. Its significance lies in its role as the primary piece of legislation that governs immigration policy in the U.S., shaping how the nation interacts with potential newcomers and manages its demographic landscape.

The other options do not relate directly to the INA’s mission. Providing financial aid to immigrant families pertains more to social programs than immigration law, while establishing diplomatic relations and regulating trade policies fall under different areas of governmental function. Thus, the focus of the INA specifically on immigration and citizenship distinguishes it from other legislative purposes.