What is ICE and what does it do?
Introduction: Why “what is ICE” matters
The question “what is ICE” is central to understanding a major component of the United States homeland security framework. Established in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, ICE plays a key role in investigating and enforcing laws related to the illegal movement of people, goods and contraband. Its work affects immigration policy, border security and international cooperation on law enforcement, making it relevant to policymakers, communities and businesses alike.
Main details
Creation and organisational context
ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It was created following the Homeland Security Act of 2002, part of a substantial reorganisation of federal agencies after 9/11. When the act took effect, functions from the former Immigration and Naturalization Service and the United States Customs Service were transferred into new entities. On 1 March 2003, these changes led to the establishment of agencies such as United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) within the newly formed Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Core responsibilities
ICE is a federal law enforcement agency under DHS. Its remit covers a wide range of domestic and international activities connected to the illegal movement of people, goods and contraband. That includes investigations that cross borders and involve complex criminal networks. By combining investigative and enforcement functions, ICE aims to detect, disrupt and dismantle activities that pose risks to public safety, national security and lawful trade and travel.
Position within DHS
The creation of ICE formed part of a broader effort to consolidate and coordinate homeland security functions. Within DHS, ICE operates alongside agencies such as USCIS and CBP, each with distinct but complementary roles tied to immigration, customs and border operations. This structure reflects an emphasis on specialised agencies working together to address threats that often span jurisdictions and nations.
Conclusion: Significance and outlook
Understanding “what is ICE” helps clarify how the United States organises enforcement related to immigration and cross-border crime. Established after 9/11 and formalised through the Homeland Security Act and the 2003 reorganisation, ICE is tasked with investigating illegal movements of people and goods. Its role will remain significant as governments and communities navigate security, legal and humanitarian challenges connected to migration and global trade.
