Government Shutdown
If Congress doesn’t pass a budget for the government on time, part of the government might stop operating. This is called a “government shutdown.” During a shutdown, only certain government employees can keep working.
This handout describes what might happen to immigration-related agencies during a government shutdown.
DHS
Most of DHS’s work is considered essential, so DHS will remain open.
USCIS
USCIS will remain open as it does not rely on Congress for its funding. The few programs that are funded by Congress may be impacted by a government shutdown.
DOS
Visa and passport operations will remain open, however, depending on how long the shutdown lasts, work might become limited to diplomatic visas and life-or-death emergencies.
CBP
Ports of entry will remain open, however, applications that are filed at the border may be impacted.
ICE
ICE enforcement and removal operations will continue. ICE attorneys will typically focus on the cases of detained individuals. The ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) offices will remain open.
EOIR
Immigration court cases for detained individuals (the “detained docket”) will continue during a government shutdown. All other cases for non-detained individuals may continue as scheduled, and individuals should assume the court will remain open. Here is a link to the operations status of each court.
DOL
DOL’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) will stop all operations during a government shutdown.
CIS Ombudsman
The DHS Office of the CIS Ombudsman will stop all operations during a government shutdown.
Congressional Constituent Services
Some congressional offices may be closed during a government shutdown. Please contact the individual office for more information.
This flyer is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should not act or rely on any information in this flyer without seeking the advice of a competent, licensed immigration attorney. if you are a client and if you have questions, please contact our office. If you wish to have a consultation, please schedule one here.
