With a federal government shutdown, many immigrants worry about what it means for their applications, interviews, and case progress. Questions about canceled appointments or delayed approvals are common—and understandable. While a shutdown can cause disruptions across many areas of the government, most immigration processes continue to operate, albeit with potential delays depending on the type of case.
At Francis Law Center, we understand how unsettling moments like these can be for families and individuals awaiting life-changing decisions. Our work with clients across the United States has shown that staying informed and prepared can make all the difference when uncertainty arises.
USCIS Operations During a Government Shutdown
Unlike many other federal agencies, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) operates mainly through the fees paid by applicants. Since it does not depend on congressional funding to continue day-to-day operations, the agency generally remains open during government shutdowns. Appointments such as biometrics, interviews, and oath ceremonies are usually held as planned, unless an applicant receives a specific cancellation notice.
However, while USCIS itself continues to operate, some immigration processes depend on other federal agencies that may be affected by a shutdown. When that happens, certain steps could slow down or be temporarily paused until the government reopens.
Possible Impacts on Immigration Cases
Even though USCIS remains open, a federal shutdown can still cause ripple effects throughout the immigration system. Some cases rely on cooperation between multiple government agencies, and when even one of those agencies pauses operations, applicants may experience delays. Families waiting on visas, humanitarian relief, or citizenship approvals could notice slower progress in certain parts of their cases.
These potential impacts may include:
- Consular delays may occur for family members or spouses applying from abroad, as U.S. consulates and embassies are part of the Department of State.
- Labor certification may be paused for employment-based immigration, as the Department of Labor may halt case processing.
- Suspended E-Verify systems for employers seeking to confirm work authorization for new hires.
- Processing delays for cases requiring security checks or clearances through agencies affected by the shutdown.
Applicants who rely on more than one federal agency may experience slower timelines until normal operations resume.
How to Prepare if You Have an Upcoming Appointment
If you have an interview, biometrics appointment, or oath ceremony scheduled during a government shutdown, the best approach is to plan as if it will proceed as usual. While the uncertainty can feel unsettling, being proactive and well-prepared helps keep your case on track regardless of external delays.
Here are a few helpful steps:
- Attend your appointment unless officially told otherwise. USCIS rarely cancels appointments due to funding issues.
- Arrive early and be organized. Bring all required documents, identification, and appointment notices neatly prepared.
- Monitor case updates online. Check the USCIS Case Status page regularly for changes or notifications.
- Be patient. Delays can occur, even when offices remain open, especially when other agencies are affected.
Taking these steps ensures that if your appointment moves forward, you’re ready, and if it’s postponed, you won’t need to scramble at the last minute to reschedule or locate missing materials. Consulting an immigration attorney ahead of time can also make the process less stressful and help you stay informed about any updates affecting your case.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Government shutdowns can create confusion and uncertainty for applicants who already find the immigration process complex and challenging. Having an experienced immigration attorney can make a significant difference by ensuring your paperwork is complete, your timeline is realistic, and your next steps are clear, even during periods of federal disruption.
At Francis Law Center, we continue to support clients throughout the United States, regardless of political or administrative changes. With offices in Chicago, Schaumburg, IL, and Madison, WI, our team offers services in four languages and provides calm, reliable guidance to families navigating immigration challenges. Led by Dr. Jae Francis Lee, a first-generation immigrant, our firm understands the concerns families face when uncertainty arises and remains dedicated to helping you stay informed and prepared.
If you have questions about how the current shutdown could affect your immigration case, reaching out to an experienced immigration attorney can help you move forward with confidence. Contact Francis Law Center today to schedule a consultation and receive trusted guidance tailored to your situation.
