The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is responsible for the security of Singapore's borders against the entry of undesirable persons and cargo through our land, air and sea checkpoints. Aside from border security, ICA also performs immigration and registration functions such as the issuing of travel documents and identity cards to Singapore citizens. ICA also issues various immigration passes and permits to foreigners. As a security agency, ICA also conducts operations against immigration offenders. Operational since 1 April 2003, ICA is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs. ICA has brought together the former Singapore Immigration & Registration (SIR) and checkpoint related enforcement work performed by the former Customs & Excise Department (CED).