Who has the final authority over immigration matters within USCIS?

The correct answer is the Secretary of Homeland Security. This position holds the final authority over immigration matters as it encompasses the overall management and direction of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which includes the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The Secretary of Homeland Security oversees policies related to immigration and ensures the enforcement of immigration laws.

In the context of the other options, while the Chief of USCIS is responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of USCIS, the authority ultimately lies with the Secretary of Homeland Security, who has the broader mandate to govern immigration policy. The Attorney General does have a significant role in immigration enforcement and legal matters but does not have final authority over USCIS functions. Lastly, the President of the United States influences immigration policy at the national level but typically delegates this authority to the Secretary of Homeland Security. Thus, the Secretary acts as the main decision-maker on immigration issues within USCIS.