For the Public

Below are pages that contain "How Do I?" information for the public.

Adopt a Child Internationally

Adopting a child from overseas can be a complex, exciting and rewarding journey. Each year, thousands of U.S. citizens adopt children from overseas. This is known as an intercountry adoption.
Become a Citizen

There are two ways to become a United States (U.S.) citizen – by birth or through naturalization.
Check Immigration Case Status

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security allows those who have applied or petitioned for an immigration benefit to check the status of their case online.
Check the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS)

National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) alerts communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, public sector organizations, airports and other transportation hubs.
File a Civil Rights Complaint

The Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL) reviews and investigates civil rights and civil liberties complaints filed by the public regarding U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies and activities. Under 6 U.S.C. § 345 and 42 U.S.C. § 2000ee-1, CRCL reviews and assesses allegations involving a range of alleged civil rights and civil liberties abuses, such as:
Find Citizenship Resources

The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants from all over the world. At DHS, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) component is at work to help immigrants successfully integrate into American civic culture.
Find Flood Maps and Insurance

Flooding is America's number one natural disaster, and all it takes is a few inches of water to cause major damage to your home and its contents. You can get flood insurance for as little as $129 a year.
Find Student Resources

If you are a student in search of information at DHS, chances are you are looking for educational materials, jobs and/or internships or information about how to navigate student and exchange visitor requirements. Or perhaps you want to know more
Get a Green Card

A Green Card holder (permanent resident) is someone who has been granted authorization to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. As proof of that status, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grants a person a permanent resident card, commonly called a "Green Card."
Get a Homeland Security Job

The Department of Homeland Security has unique career opportunities that will challenge your mind and reward your skills and talents.
Move to the United States

Foreign citizens wishing to immigrate and live permanently in the U.S. must comply with U.S. visa immigration laws, and specific procedures to apply for visas.
Practice Boating Safety

Each year, too many Americans are injured or killed due to preventable recreational boating accidents on U.S. waterways. You – as a boat operator, passenger, or concerned individual – can make a difference.
Prepare My Family for a Disaster

Because your family may not be together when a disaster strikes it is important to create a plan in advance. It is also essential to have a disaster supplies kit that includes basic items from your home that you may need in case of emergency.
Protect Myself from Cyber Attacks

The Department of Homeland Security plays an important role in countering threats to our cyber network. We aim to secure the federal civilian networks, cyberspace and critical infrastructure that are essential to our lives and work.
Report Cyber Incidents

The growing number of serious attacks on essential cyber networks is one of the most serious economic and national security threats our nation faces.
Report Suspicious Activity

Prompt and detailed reporting of suspicious activities can help prevent violent crimes or terrorist attacks. If you see suspicious activity, please report it to your local police department. Local law enforcement officers can respond quickly.
Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal statute. FOIA generally provides that any person has a right to request access to federal agency records.
Verify Employment Eligibility (E-Verify)

U.S. law requires companies to employ only individuals who may legally work in the United States – either U.S. citizens, or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization.