With the US government partially closed due to a funding impasse between Republicans and Democrats, the operational status of various agencies is in question. The shutdown, which started recently, has an unknown end date. A memo from the Executive Office of the President outlined shutdown protocols.
Passport services will stay available, with a possible shift to focus on diplomatic visas and urgent situations, contingent on the shutdown’s duration. Ports of entry will stay open.
USCIS will continue operating as its funding comes from collected fees. Some programs might be affected. The DOL’s foreign labor certification office will be operational. Employers won’t be able to submit new H-1B applications requiring new LCAs.
ICE operations will continue as normal. The Student and Exchange Visitor Program offices will also remain open.
