As of October 1, 2025, the U.S. federal government has entered a shutdown due to the failure of Congress to pass a continuing resolution extending federal funding. While essential services continue to operate, many federal agencies are affected. Midwest University will continue to monitor the situation and share relevant updates as they become available.

This information is provided to help Midwest University’s international students and J-1 research scholars understand possible impacts on immigration-related services and travel.

<Possible Impacts on International Students and Scholars>

Visa appointments, interviews, and visa issuance
During previous shutdowns, the U.S. Department of State reduced or temporarily halted visa operations at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. If similar measures occur, visa issuance for new students or research scholars may be delayed, requiring adjustments to travel or arrival plans.
Students and scholars are strongly encouraged to avoid non-essential international travel if they need new visa stamps to return to the United States.

J-1 waiver processing
If the Department of State’s Waiver Review Division suspends operations, the processing of J-1 waivers may be delayed. This would affect scholars subject to the two-year home residency requirement, as USCIS cannot approve a change of status until a waiver is granted.

Social Security number (SSN) applications
In past shutdowns, the Social Security Administration paused SSN application processing. New students and scholars may be unable to apply for SSNs until the agency resumes operations.

E-Verify employment eligibility verification
If E-Verify is temporarily unavailable, employers may use alternative verification procedures for Form I-9 compliance until the system returns to service.

Labor Condition Applications (H-1B, E-3)
A Department of Labor shutdown would delay the approval of Labor Condition Applications required for H-1B and E-3 visa petitions. Petitions could not be filed with USCIS until these applications are processed.

PERM Labor Certification for Permanent Residence
Similarly, the processing of PERM Labor Certifications—an early step in many employment-based green card cases—would be delayed if the Department of Labor halts operations.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

USCIS operations are generally fee-funded and are expected to continue. Applications for F-1 OPT/STEM OPT, H-1B, and status extensions should still be processed. However, if background checks depend on other closed federal agencies, some cases could be delayed.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
CBP functions are considered essential. Airport and land-port inspections will continue as usual, though travelers should expect possible processing delays.

Driver’s License Processing
Because the Missouri Department of Revenue operates at the state level, driver’s license and vehicle registration services should remain unaffected.

Offices Expected to Remain Open (with Possible Delays)