US Shutdown Update: What It Means for Passport and Visa Applicants

The United States has entered its first government shutdown in seven years. When this happens, most non-essential federal services are paused, and thousands of employees are placed on unpaid leave until lawmakers reach a deal. That usually means delays across different government agencies, including those handling travel documents.

Will Passport and Visa Services Be Affected?

The good news for travellers is that the U.S. passport and visa services are still running. The US Embassy in India has confirmed that applications for travel visas, business visas, and H-1B visas will continue to be processed.

In a statement posted on X, the US Embassy in India clarified:

“At this time, scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at U.S. 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.“

At this time, scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at U.S. 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…

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) October 1, 2025

In practical terms, this means appointments remain valid, but applicants should brace for possible delays. Staff considered “essential” are still working, though many are doing so without pay until the shutdown ends.

Why Did the Shutdown Happen?

The shutdown began after President Donald Trump’s Republican Party failed to secure enough votes to pass a new spending bill. Although Republicans hold a majority in Congress, they fell short of the 60 votes needed in the Senate, where Democrats remain a strong force.

The deadlock centres on healthcare spending. Democrats argue that the proposed bill would drive up costs for ordinary Americans and refuse to support it.

How Long Could This Last?

There’s no set timeline. The last major shutdown, in 2018 during Trump’s first term, dragged on for 35 days, the longest in US history. If this standoff follows a similar path, travellers should expect growing backlogs for US visas and passports, even if services don’t stop outright.

What This Means for Travellers

• Visa appointments are still valid: You can attend scheduled interviews at US consulates and embassies.
• Expect slower processing times: Staffing shortages and funding gaps may create delays.
• Watch for official updates: The embassy will only post urgent alerts until normal operations resume.

For now, the message is clear: you can still apply for a US visa or passport, but patience will be key until the political gridlock in Washington ends.