Official website of the Department of Homeland Security
Mission
With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.
A text transcript of this video is provided in lieu of an audio description.
Our Mission
Missions include preventing terrorism and enhancing security; managing our borders; administering immigration laws; securing cyberspace; and ensuring disaster resilience.
Enforce and Administer Our Immigration Laws
The Department is focused on smart and effective enforcement of U.S. immigration laws while streamlining and facilitating the legal immigration process.
Ensure Resilience to Disasters
The Department of Homeland Security provides the coordinated, comprehensive federal response in the event of a terrorist attack, natural disaster or other large-scale emergency while working with federal, state, local, and private sector partners to ensure a swift and effective recovery effort.
Prevent Terrorism and Enhance Security
Protecting the American people from terrorist threats is our founding principle and our highest priority.
Safeguard and Secure Cyberspace
Department works with industry and state, local, tribal and territorial governments to secure critical infrastructure and information systems. Analyzes and reduces threats and distributes warnings.
Secure and Manage Our Borders
The Department of Homeland Security secures the nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
Mature and Strengthen the Homeland Security Enterprise
The Department of Homeland Security was formed after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as part of a national effort to safeguard the United States against terrorism.