Summary
The Trump administration warned that a U.S. government shutdown might affect USCIS services like visa interviews and naturalization ceremonies. USCIS, mostly funded by application fees rather than the federal budget, stated that while services might slow, their mission includes vetting for security concerns. Some people say the slowdown could be a choice rather than a necessity.
Key Facts
- USCIS services such as visa interviews and naturalization ceremonies may face delays due to the government shutdown.
- USCIS is primarily funded through fees from immigration applications, not federal government funding.
- Despite being fee-funded, USCIS said they must comply with the law during a shutdown.
- The agency's current priorities include vetting national security concerns and working with ICE.
- Only the E-Verify system within USCIS relies on taxpayer funding and it remains active.
- USCIS continued operations during past government shutdowns.
- Critics argue the service slowdown is a policy choice, not due to necessity or budget constraints.
