Government Shutdown

[4izenough 3]

I'm hearing all over the news that the government might shut down, If the Government shut down, does that mean USCIS will also shut down?

Therefor halting all processing of all petition?

[Rob&Pame 2]

Yes, that's what it means! Hopefully it doesn't come to that!!

[KiwiBird 132]

No, that is not what it means. The areas of the gov't that shut down would be things like public parks. Social Security, Immigration, and other services won't.

[On the Road Again 2]

No, that is not what it means. The areas of the gov't that shut down would be things like public parks. Social Security, Immigration, and other services won't.

Not so sure that is correct.. passports and immigration/visas would be affected. Under a precedent-setting memorandum federal workers are exempted from furloughs if their jobs are national security-related or if they perform essential activities that "protect life and property." Visas do not fit that requirement. Many visa workers are contract workers. "Regardless, federal contractors would lose out. Many contract workers could be furloughed without pay and not receive lost wages retroactively, especially in an extended shutdown.

Who won't show up?

"Here are some examples of what you'll find closed: Museums and monuments, passport and visa offices, and the Smithsonian's National Zoo."

So remember.... "The single most exciting thing you encounter in government is competence, because it's so rare"

Vermont Service Center

[B_J 2,752]

The last time the government shut down, thousands of visas and passports went unprocessed. So, I'd assume that's what would happen this time too.

However, there is a really good chance that they will agree to a new budget or, more likely, they will reach a temporary agreement of some type while they work on a budget. I remember in an earlier thread that Piefre pointed out that the last time there was a shutdown there was a political backlash and most likely neither party is willing to risk taking the blame this time. Hopefully they will reach an agreement soon; even if it's only out of fear of their political future.

I would keep paying attention to the news; but don't worry yourself too much. Even if there were a shutdown it would most likely be very short. Hang in there.

So remember.... "The single most exciting thing you encounter in government is competence, because it's so rare"