How Palantir’s AI Powers U.S. Immigration and National Security Operations

Palantir Technologies is a software company. It plays a big role in U.S. government operations. The company helps with some of the country’s most important and sensitive tasks. Its software is used in areas like military intelligence and immigration enforcement. It has been quietly shaping decisions that affect millions of people.

The Brain of Modern Surveillance

Palantir is not just another tech startup. It was founded in 2003. The company had early support from In-Q-Tel, which is the CIA’s investment arm. Palantir made a name for itself by helping U.S. intelligence agencies make sense of large, complex data. The company created software platforms like Gotham, Foundry, Apollo, and AIP (Artificial Intelligence Platform). These platforms combine data from different sources. They help users spot patterns and make decisions quickly.

One government analyst explained that Palantir does more than just analyze data. It turns data into actionable information.

Used by ICE, But Not USCIS

Palantir is used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Specifically, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit uses Palantir’s Investigative Case Management (ICM) system. This software helps track potential threats, criminal activities, and immigration violations.

Here is what Palantir can do:

It combines data from social media, criminal records, visa applications, and travel history.

It tracks relationships between people, addresses, employers, and organizations.

It alerts agents about suspicious behavior or inconsistencies.

However, Palantir is not used by USCIS, the agency that handles visa and green card applications. It also doesn’t play a role in visa interviews at U.S. consulates. The software is mainly used for investigations and enforcement, not for processing benefits.

At the Border: Port of Entry Usage?

There is no confirmed contract linking Palantir to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at ports of entry. However, experts believe its tools may support intelligence-gathering and border security efforts. One former DHS consultant described Palantir’s technology as a “digital crystal ball.” This means officials can run “what if” scenarios before making decisions.

How the AI Works

Palantir’s Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) is its latest product. It combines big data with large language models, the same technology used in tools like ChatGPT. AIP allows users to:

Ask natural language questions like, “Which H-1B employers are under federal scrutiny?”

Simulate the results of actions, such as deportations or security alerts.

Use AI assistants to generate reports, identify risks, and suggest next steps.

This creates an AI-powered command center that is used by military leaders, hospital managers, and government agents.

Controversy and Civil Liberties

Palantir has attracted attention from civil rights groups. Organizations like the ACLU have raised concerns about the software. They worry that Palantir’s tools could lead to mass surveillance and targeted profiling, especially in immigration matters. Palantir insists that its software is ethical. The company says it follows strict privacy controls and human oversight. However, as Palantir expands into industries like healthcare and finance, many wonder where the line between security and surveillance lies.

Big Tech, Big Growth

Palantir’s stock (PLTR) has grown significantly in 2025. The company has crossed a -$100 billion valuation. It is increasingly used by U.S. and allied governments worldwide. Some experts see Palantir as “the next Raytheon of software.” This means it is seen as a digital defense contractor for the next generation of warfare and intelligence.

Why You Should Care

Palantir’s software affects many parts of society. It touches border security, military defense, public health, and finance. However, most people don’t even know about it. If you are applying for a visa, working in AI, or concerned about privacy, Palantir matters. In a world where data is powerful, Palantir could be the most powerful software company you have never heard of.