Immigration
Immigration central for reliable resources and the latest developments in U.S. immigration laws, policies, and procedures for immigrants worldwide.
Can Sports Teams File P-1, P-2, or P-3 Petitions During a Shutdown?
USCIS remains open during a shutdown, so P-1/P-2/P-3 petitions can be filed and processed. Main risk: slower consular visa appointments abroad could delay travel. File early, use clear schedules and…
Can DV Victims File VAWA I-360 During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS will accept and process VAWA self-petitions (Form I-360) during a government shutdown because these services are fee-funded.…
F-1 OPT EAD Expiry During a Shutdown: Grace Period and Extensions
Shutdowns do not change OPT rules: students get a nonworking 60-day grace period after EAD expiry. Timely STEM…
Filing H-4 Status Change During a Shutdown: Will USCIS Accept
USCIS will accept and process H-4 change-of-status filings during a government shutdown because it is fee-funded. File I-539…
Are P-4 Dependent Visas Processed During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS usually continues P-category petition processing during shutdowns because of fee funding, but consulates may limit routine visa…
I-90 Green Card Renewals During a Shutdown: What to Expect
USCIS will continue processing I-90 renewals during a federal shutdown and will produce and mail approved green cards.…
Can J-2 Dependents Apply for EAD During a Government Shutdown?
Despite the October 1, 2025 shutdown, USCIS continues to process J-2 EAD applications because it’s fee-funded. J-2s can…
Can I-140 Be Filed During a Shutdown? USCIS EB Petitions
USCIS stays open during a shutdown and accepts I-140 petitions for EB-1/EB-2/EB-3, but DOL suspends PERM and LCA…
Can We File L-1 Blanket Renewal During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS will process L-1 Blanket renewals during the October 1, 2025 shutdown because it’s fee-funded. DOL immigration services…
Are H-4 EAD Renewals Processed in a Federal Shutdown? Timelines
USCIS generally maintains H-4 EAD processing during shutdowns. Processing in 2025 is often 3–6 months but can extend…