Immigration
Immigration central for reliable resources and the latest developments in U.S. immigration laws, policies, and procedures for immigrants worldwide.
J-1 DS-2019 Issuance by Sponsors Continues in Shutdown
During a shutdown, sponsoring organizations keep issuing DS-2019s and SEVIS stays active; USCIS processes fee-funded cases including J-2 work authorization. Consular visa appointments and Social Security services may slow, so…
How a Government Shutdown Affects EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 Green Cards
Starting October 1, 2025, USCIS continues fee-funded EB-1/EB-2/EB-3 and I-485 processing, while DOL’s OFLC suspends PERM and LCA…
TN Changes at the Border During a Government Shutdown: What to Know
CBP remains open during the 2025 shutdown and continues TN adjudications at ports of entry, while USCIS handles…
What Happens to U Visa Derivative Applications During Federal Shutdown
U Visa petitions and derivative filings generally continue during federal shutdowns because USCIS operates on fees. Form I-918…
H-4 EAD During Government Shutdown: Spouse’s H-1B Pending
USCIS, funded by fees, usually continues processing H-1B and H-4 EAD filings during shutdowns. A timely-filed, pending H-1B…
I-601 and I-601A Waivers During a Government Shutdown: What to Expect
Because USCIS is fee-funded, I-601 and I-601A waivers generally continue during shutdowns, though extended lapses can slow processing…
CBP Remains Operational at Ports During Shutdown; Delays Possible
CBP remains operational during a government shutdown, keeping ports open and continuing inspections. Expect potential delays from reduced…
Can Treaty Investors File E-2 Petitions or Extensions During Shutdown?
E-2 visas are issued at consulates, not by USCIS. During the 2025 shutdown most E-2 interviews continue, but…
Can T Visa Applications Be Filed During a Government Shutdown?
Because USCIS is fee-funded, T visa filings and adjudications generally continue during government shutdowns. DOL pauses and consular…
SEVP and SEVIS Operational During Shutdown: Can DSOs Issue I-20s?
During the October 1, 2025 partial shutdown, fee-funded SEVP and SEVIS stayed operational, so DSOs can issue and…