Shutdown has caused confusion and fear. It continues to backlog an immigration system that is already years behind in case decisions. My name is Mario Godoy and I’m an attorney with Godoy law office where we help our clients to achieve the American dream. Our goal with today’s video is to give you some general information on how the government shutdown is impacting immigration. Of course in all instances you should always speak with an attorney to review the details of your case. Can I still file a petition for immigrant status? The answer is yes. Immigration petitions can still be filed at any time. The US Citizenship and Immigration Service offices are open throughout the government shutdown. According to a statement by USCIS, fee for service activities performed by USC IRS are not affected by the lapse and annual appropriated funding and since immigrants applying for benefits pay the fees for their applications, immigration offices are able to take and stay open during the shutdown.
What if a petition that has already been filed? So your petition will continue to move forward despite the government shutdown, any filed petition will not be abandoned during this time. Another question: my fingerprint appointment is scheduled for this week should I go? Yes, USCIS offices including biometric processing centers are open during the shutdown. If you do not go to your fingerprint appointment, your case could be delayed. Will my scheduled interview still happen? Yes, if you have a scheduled interview your interview will go forward. According to the USCIS statement, all USCIS offices worldwide are open for interviews and appointments as scheduled. Is Immigration and Customs Enforcement open? Yes, ice detention and enforcement operations will continue and the ice community and detainee helpline will continue to operate. What about immigration courts? Most immigration courts are closed during the government shutdown except in urgent deportation cases. The US immigration courts are not open. This means that if your case is scheduled for a hearing during the government shutdown, it may be postponed. However, it’s important for you to stay updated and continue to prepare for your hearing. The courts could open at any time and it’s imperative that you stay up-to-date and prepared. Now, if you are facing a filing deadline for your case, please meet with an attorney as soon as possible because the right action will depend on the type of removal case that you have.