U.S. Government Shutdown: How It Impacts Air Travel, Visas, and Customs

Air Travel During a Shutdown

Flights continue operating during a U.S. government shutdown because air traffic controllers and TSA officers are considered essential staff. Travellers may face longer lines because unpaid essential workers might call in sick, causing staffing shortages and delays at security checkpoints.

Airlines will keep their schedules, but slower federal aviation systems could cause delays, disruptions, and challenges with overall operational efficiency.

U.S. Visas and Passport Services

Embassies and consulates generally remain open, but certain visa and passport services may slow depending on available funding or staffing. Visa applications usually continue since applicants’ fees fund processing, but furloughed support staff could still delay appointments or document turnaround significantly.

Passport services operate during shutdowns, though temporary office closures or reduced staffing may cause much longer waiting times for travellers requiring documents.

Customs and Border Clearance

Customs officers and border agents continue working because they are essential, ensuring immigration checks and customs processing remain active throughout. Passengers can still enter through U.S. airports and land borders, but reduced staffing may significantly increase clearance times and queues.

Although services continue running, shutdown-related staff shortages can create delays, longer lines, and frustrating wait times at customs, immigration, and security checkpoints.