Which government entity issues visas?

Visas are primarily issued by the Department of State, which is responsible for formulating and implementing the U.S. foreign policy and managing international relations. The Department of State oversees U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, where visa processing takes place. This department establishes the requirements for different visa types, including non-immigrant and immigrant visas, guiding foreign individuals on how to legally enter the United States.

While the Department of Homeland Security plays a significant role in border security and immigration enforcement, it does not issue visas. Instead, it focuses on enforcement of immigration laws and the security aspects of entry into the U.S. The Department of Justice is involved more with immigration courts and law enforcement regarding immigration violations, and the Department of Defense's mandate revolves around military operations, not immigration services.