In recent days, many immigrants in the United States have felt worried after hearing about the possible federal government shutdown. We know that constant news about politics and immigration can be overwhelming, especially when they may directly affect your future and your family.
At Multi Help Office, we understand that uncertainty. That’s why we want to clearly explain what a government shutdown means, how it could affect your immigration process, and what you can do to stay informed and prepared.
What Is a “Shutdown” and Why Does It Happen?
Every year, the U.S. Congress must approve the federal budget that funds government operations. When lawmakers fail to reach an agreement before the start of the new fiscal year (October 1), the funds run out, and some agencies are forced to partially or completely suspend their activities. This is known as a federal government shutdown.
In this case, the October 2025 shutdown began because Congress did not approve the funding bills for fiscal year 2026 before the previous budget expired on September 30. While negotiations continue, several federal agencies are required to reduce staff or pause non-essential services.
Does USCIS Still Operate During the Shutdown?
Yes, and that’s good news. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) continues most of its operations because it is primarily funded by the application fees paid by applicants. This means you can still file your immigration forms and payments normally. The following services remain active:
- Green Card (Permanent Residency) applications
- Naturalization processes
- Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
- Family petitions and status renewals
However, you may experience delays if other collaborating agencies (such as those that handle background or security checks) are operating with limited staff.
Immigration Processes That May Be Affected
While USCIS continues to function, other agencies involved in the immigration system may face temporary interruptions:
- E-Verify
The system employers use to confirm the legal status of new hires is temporarily suspended. Businesses must keep employment records and complete the verification using Form I-9 once E-Verify is reactivated. - Department of Labor (DOL)
Labor Certifications, required for certain employment-based visas, are on hold since this agency depends directly on congressional funding. - Department of State (DOS)
Consular and visa services may experience delays or cancellations, especially in embassies and consulates operating with limited funds.
What About Immigration Courts (EOIR)?
During the federal government shutdown, immigration courts remain open. The Department of Justice (DOJ), through the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), continues its operations, especially for cases considered essential.
If you have a scheduled hearing, you must attend as planned. Failing to appear could have serious consequences for your case, including a removal order issued in your absence. In general:
- Hearings for detained individuals continue without interruption.
- Hearings for non-detained individuals may continue depending on each court’s schedule, though some may be rescheduled if administrative staff is limited.
- Courts are open, though some may experience longer waiting times due to reduced resources.
In summary: Do not assume your hearing has been canceled. Always verify your court date directly on the EOIR portal or speak with your attorney or accredited representative before making any decision.
ICE Operations
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues operating during the shutdown. Detentions, background checks, and all functions related to national security are considered essential and proceed normally.
Practical Recommendations During the Shutdown
- Submit your applications as soon as possible
USCIS is still accepting forms and payments. If your documents are ready, don’t wait to send them. - Keep all documentation
Save receipts, emails, and any official notices. These will help if delays occur later. - Check your case status regularly
Use the official USCIS Case Status tool to stay updated. (See full info in the previous post) - If you’re an employer using E-Verify
Keep records of new hires and complete verification as soon as the system is back online. - Rely only on official sources
Avoid rumors or social media posts. Always confirm updates on official websites.
While a federal government shutdown can cause uncertainty, it’s important to remember that not all immigration services stop. USCIS continues to operate, immigration courts remain open, and essential functions, like ICE and background checks, proceed as usual.
At Multi Help Office, we know how stressful these situations can be. That’s why we offer a free initial consultation, to help you understand how the shutdown might affect your case and what steps you can take to protect your process.
Stay calm, stay informed, and remember: you are not alone. We are here to guide you every step of the way.