The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown that began on February 14, 2026, does not disrupt employment-based immigration operations. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that essential immigration processes, including H-1B petitions and green card applications, will proceed as normal during this period.
Key Details:
- H-1B petitions continue to be processed without interruption.
- Employment-based green card applications are unaffected and will proceed normally.
- The E-Verify system remains operational, ensuring employer compliance.
- Key agencies, including the Department of Labor and the State Department, maintain full operational capacity through FY 2026.
Approximately 90% of DHS personnel are continuing essential operations, ensuring that the infrastructure supporting employment-based immigration remains intact. Employers and visa applicants are encouraged to file petitions and applications on their usual timelines, while documenting any challenges posed by the shutdown.
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