With another federal funding lapse unfolding, many immigrants, employers, and families are asking: is USCIS impacted by government shutdown? While some agencies grind to a halt during a funding freeze, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has unique protections that allow it to keep operating. But that doesn’t mean there are no consequences. Certain programs may slow down or pause, and ripple effects from other agencies can still disrupt the immigration process.
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Why USCIS Stays Open When Others Shut Down
Most federal agencies depend directly on congressional funding to keep their doors open. USCIS is different. The agency is primarily financed by application and petition fees. This self-funding model means the majority of USCIS services can continue even during a shutdown.
- Naturalization interviews continue as scheduled.
- Adjustment of status and work authorization applications still move forward.
- Biometrics appointments at application support centers are generally not canceled.
Only a very small percentage of USCIS staff may be furloughed during a government shutdown, allowing the agency to operate at near-normal levels compared to others.
Programs That May Be Disrupted
Even with its fee-funded structure, USCIS is not fully insulated. Some specific programs depend partly on congressional appropriations and can be affected if funding is cut off.
- E-Verify: Employers may lose access to the online system used to check worker eligibility.
- EB-5 Regional Center Program: Certain investment-based immigration programs may face temporary suspension.
- Conrad 30 Waiver Program: Physicians working in underserved areas under J-1 visa waivers may see administrative delays.
- Religious Worker Visas: Certain subcategories, like non-minister roles, could be impacted by a shutdown.
This means while the majority of applicants will still see progress, people tied to these programs should prepare for delays.
Indirect Impacts on USCIS Cases
The bigger challenge comes not from USCIS itself, but from its reliance on other federal partners. Immigration cases often involve multiple agencies, and if those agencies face furloughs or closures, USCIS operations can be slowed indirectly.
- Department of Labor: Employment-based visas often require labor certifications. If the labor office pauses, USCIS cannot proceed with those petitions.
- Department of State: Consulates overseas handle interviews and visa issuance. A shutdown may slow scheduling or cause backlogs.
- Immigration Courts: For those with pending asylum or adjustment of status cases tied to court proceedings, delays are possible if hearings are postponed.
- Federal Verification Systems: Data sharing across agencies may be limited, creating longer processing times.
So, while USCIS doors may stay open, applicants can still feel the disruption if their cases depend on outside agencies.
How This Affects Applicants
For immigrants navigating the system, the key question remains: is USCIS impacted by government shutdown in ways that matter to them personally? The answer depends on the type of application.
- Citizenship Applications: Generally continue on track, though some interview rescheduling could occur in areas hit by staffing shortages.
- Green Card Adjustments: Most will proceed, though delays may build if background checks are tied to other agencies.
- Work Authorization (EADs): Still processed, though mailing and printing timelines could be stretched.
- Employer Compliance: Businesses that rely on E-Verify may need to use temporary alternatives while the system is down.
Applicants should stay alert to official updates on whether their program is fully operational.
Table: Which USCIS Services Are Most Affected
| USCIS Service / Program | Impact During Shutdown | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Naturalization interviews | Largely unaffected | Low |
| Green card (I-485) processing | Minor delays possible | Low |
| Work permits (EAD) | Processed with some delays | Low |
| Biometrics appointments | Continue as scheduled | Very Low |
| E-Verify | Likely suspended | High |
| EB-5 Investor visas | May face suspension | Medium |
| J-1 Conrad 30 Waiver | Delays possible | Medium |
| Religious worker (non-minister) | At risk of pause | Medium |
Employer Concerns During a Shutdown
Employers play a critical role in immigration, especially with work visas and employment verification. A shutdown can complicate these obligations.
- If E-Verify is suspended, businesses must document verification attempts and complete checks once the system is restored.
- Hiring timelines for foreign workers may be pushed back, especially in industries relying on seasonal or specialty visas.
- Companies sponsoring workers through labor certifications may be left waiting if certifications cannot be issued by the Department of Labor.
Preparation is key. Employers should keep detailed records and plan for temporary compliance adjustments.
What Applicants Can Do During a Shutdown
If USCIS is impacted by government shutdown conditions, here are some practical steps for applicants:
- Keep Appointments: Unless you receive official cancellation, attend all scheduled interviews and biometrics.
- Track Your Case Online: Use the USCIS case tracker to monitor progress.
- Prepare for Delays: Build extra time into expectations, especially for cases involving other agencies.
- Document Everything: Save receipts, appointment notices, and correspondence in case of later disputes.
- Stay Informed: Watch for official USCIS announcements on program suspensions or service adjustments.
Being proactive ensures you are not caught off guard if your case is affected.
Long-Term Backlog Concerns
While USCIS largely avoids direct closure, shutdowns can worsen existing backlogs. The agency already faces millions of pending cases, and even small disruptions ripple through the system. Extended shutdowns mean more people waiting for interviews, longer processing times, and added strain on already stretched staff.
Applicants should be prepared for longer timelines across many case types, even if their particular program is not suspended outright.
Final Thoughts
The question of is USCIS impacted by government shutdown does not have a simple yes or no answer. While most services continue because of fee-based funding, certain programs tied to appropriations will pause, and ripple effects from other agencies can create delays. For immigrants, employers, and families, staying informed and planning ahead is the best way to navigate the uncertainty. If you are dealing with USCIS during this funding lapse, share your experiences below and keep checking for further updates.