What Continues to Function:
The federal government shutdown that began today, October 1, 2025, should not immediately stop your key immigration processes. Most critical student-related services are expected to continue because they are paid for by application fees, not by Congress:
- SEVIS is Operational: The SEVIS system that holds your record is expected to remain active.
- USCIS Services Continue: USCIS (e.g., OPT/I-765 processing) and most visa/passport services at U.S. Consulates are expected to continue.
- WARNING: Even though these systems are running, you should still prepare for potential slowdowns. If the shutdown is prolonged, processing times may increase, and some U.S. Consulates might limit their services. Always check the operating status of a specific consulate/embassy before scheduling or attending visa interviews.
Potential Impacts on F-1 and J-1 Students:
| Service Area | Agency Responsible | Impact During Shutdown |
|---|---|---|
| Air Travel / Domestic Travel | FAA & TSA | HIGH RISK: Expect longer airport security lines and potential flight delays or cancellations due to staffing issues at the FAA/TSA. |
| Social Security Numbers (SSN) | Social Security Administration (SSA) | SEVERE RISK: SSA has historically ceased processing SSN applications during shutdowns, which would significantly delay employment start dates for students who require an SSN for paid work (GA, internships, CPT/OPT). |
| Long-Term Employment (H-1B, E-3) | DOL (Department of Labor) | SEVERE IMPACT: The DOL’s systems (OFLC/LCA/FLAG) will shut down. This halts employers from obtaining the Labor Condition Application (LCA), which is essential for sponsoring students for long-term work visas (like H-1B) after OPT. |
| E-Verify | E-Verify (DHS/USCIS) | SEVERE IMPACT: The E-Verify system is federally funded and will likely be unavailable/offline. Employers, especially those required for STEM OPT, cannot initiate new cases or resolve Tentative Nonconfirmations (TNCs). Note: Employers must still comply with the Form I-9 requirement. |
Actionable Guidance for F-1 and J-1 Students
- Submit Requests Early: Submit all CPT/OPT/AT requests to the ISS office well in advance of your start date. If applying for OPT/STEM OPT, file your application early in the allowed window to account for federal delays.
- Plan for SSN: Submit your SSN application as early as permitted to mitigate the risk of the office closing.
- If you plan to seek H-1B or non-F-1 status: Consult with your employer’s immigration attorney now regarding the DOL shutdown.
- Anticipate Air/Domestic Travel Delays: If you have domestic flights scheduled, be prepared for potential longer security lines and flight delays due to possible staffing issues at the FAA and TSA.
Disclaimer: This guidance outlines the most common scenarios and potential service disruptions typically experienced by F-1 and J-1 students during a federal shutdown. Please note that immigration regulations are complex and constantly changing, and your personal situation may involve unique circumstances not addressed here. This information does not constitute legal advice. Students should first seek guidance from an ISS advisor and, for legal counsel on complex or case-specific matters, consult with an experienced immigration attorney.
