After US President Donald Trump and Congress were unable to strike a funding agreement by Wednesday’s deadline, the United States government officially entered a shutdown. This development has led to the furlough of hundreds of thousands of federal employees and the closure of numerous government offices across the country.
Amid growing concern among visa applicants and foreign workers, particularly those on or applying for H-1B visas, the US Embassy in India has offered some much-needed clarity. In a statement, the embassy confirmed that passport and visa services—including the processing of H-1B applications—will continue, as circumstances permit.
Despite the disruption caused by the shutdown, scheduled passport and visa services, both within the United States and at American embassies and consulates abroad, are expected to proceed, depending on available resources. The reassurance comes as many applicants feared potential delays or cancellations in visa appointments due to the partial suspension of federal operations. The US Embassy in India has confirmed that consular services will continue during the lapse in congressional appropriations. However, some services may still face disruptions or delays.
In a post on X, the US Embassy stated: “At this time, scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at US Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits. We will not update this account until full operations resume, with the exception of urgent safety and security information. For information on our services and operating status, visit http://travel.state.gov.”
Essential consular services remain available, but experts warn that staffing shortages and dependence on fee-based operations could cause delays or restricted hours, especially for non-urgent requests.
The US government officially shut down on October 1 following a deadlock between congressional Republicans and Democrats over passing a spending bill. Without an approved budget, the government is legally required to suspend funding for a wide range of operations. This results in the furlough of hundreds of thousands of federal employees and forces many others to work without pay.
The current shutdown is the first in nearly seven years, with the last occurring in 2018 during President Donald Trump’s administration. Shutdowns often occur in October because the federal government’s fiscal year begins on October 1 and ends on September 30.
In a shutdown, only essential services—those that protect life or property—continue to operate. Non-essential functions, such as many administrative and regulatory tasks, are paused. The impact often trickles down to state and local governments, disrupting programmes that rely on federal coordination or funding.
Government shutdowns lead to broad and visible disruptions. Federal agencies like NASA, the Department of Education, and others may reduce or halt operations. Services such as passport and visa processing may experience significant delays or limited availability. National parks and monuments often close or operate with reduced staff.
While essential services like air traffic control, border protection, and emergency response continue, the employees behind them typically work without pay until the government reopens. If the shutdown persists, it can weigh heavily on consumer confidence, delay business activity tied to federal contracts, and impact overall economic growth.
Will the US government shutdown delay H-1B visa processing?
Some delays are possible, but the US Embassy in India has confirmed that H-1B visa processing will continue as circumstances permit.
Are H-1B visa interviews still being scheduled during the shutdown?
Interviews may be limited or delayed due to reduced staffing, but essential visa services aim to continue operating.
Can H-1B visa holders still enter the US during the shutdown?
Yes, travel is allowed, but processing times for new applications or renewals might be slower.
Will federal employees working on H-1B visa cases be paid during the shutdown?
“Excepted” employees working during the shutdown typically work without immediate pay until funding resumes.
Where can I get updates on H-1B visa services during the shutdown?
Check official websites like the US Embassy in India and the US Department of State for the latest information.