On October 1, 2025, the federal government officially shut down after Congress failed to pass an appropriations or temporary funding bill. This has resulted in a freeze of non-essential government services. Below are the highlights of what is and is not impacted with respect to immigration services:
- Department of Labor (DOL) Immigration Functions: Processing of Labor Condition Applications (LCAs), prevailing wage determinations, and PERM applications will be suspended until Congress enacts a further stopgap spending measure or the FY 2025 budget is passed.
- Fee-Based Functions will continue, which include:
- USCIS petitions and applications (this includes applications, biometrics processing, interviews, and naturalization ceremonies)
- State Department visa and passport services.
- ICE and CBP functions will continue as these are deemed essential.
- Conrad 30 program could be suspended; this is still to be determined.
- E-Verify system is shut down and is not being actively managed.
For services that will continue, if the shutdown is prolonged, we can expect delays.
The Trump Administration has not released any public-agency specific shutdown plans. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep you informed of any developments. If you have specific concerns regarding your immigration case or related matters, please do not hesitate to reach out.
This publication is provided by Greenspoon Marder LLP is issued for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed or used as general legal advice nor a solicitation of any type. Please contact the author(s) or your Greenspoon Marder LLP contact if you have any questions regarding the currency of this information. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision. Before you decide, ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.
