The recent governmental shutdown has affected immigration courts as it
has other key federal provisions. The shutdown will put some urgent
matters on hold. According to a recent article in the Washington Post,
“petitions for political asylum and non-emergency deportation cases are
among the matters that could be delayed for months if the shutdown lasts
more than a few days.”
As of early this week, 16 immigration courts are closed and 42 are open;
23 of those manage cases of detained immigrants only. Some services
remain unencumbered, including services that are financed by customer
fees. Court hearings and other procedures for immigrants in federal
custody are to continue on schedule. Additionally, the Board of
Immigration Appeals will continue to hear requests for emergency relief
from deportation and appeals for detained immigrants, said the Justice
Department.
