The Department of Homeland Security reopened after a 76-day shutdown ended on April 30, 2026. But here’s the catch — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are still stuck in funding limbo. Add enhanced security screening for immigration applications to the mix, and you’ve got new headaches for applicants across the country.
What This Historic Shutdown Means
President Trump signed the fiscal year 2026 DHS spending bill on April 30, ending the 76-day shutdown. The problem? The bill doesn’t include funding for ICE and parts of CBP — the two agencies that actually handle immigration enforcement.
Here’s how we got here: Democrats refused to fund ICE and parts of CBP after federal agents killed two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis during January’s immigration crackdown. While this political standoff continues, enhanced security screening kicked in on April 27, 2026, requiring new FBI background checks for pending cases.
Republicans are now attempting to fully fund ICE and CBP via budget reconciliation, which sets a 50-vote threshold in the Senate for spending measures, with proposed funding exceeding $70 billion through 2029.
How This Affects Immigration Applicants
The combination of agency funding uncertainty and new security protocols creates significant challenges for those pursuing immigration benefits:
- Enhanced Screening Delays: USCIS began receiving enhanced criminal history record information for all fingerprint-based background checks on April 27, 2026. Officers have been directed to withhold approval of any case that has not undergone the expanded background checks.
- Pending Case Reprocessing: USCIS has instructed officers to resubmit prior fingerprints for any pending case where the background check was completed before April 27.
- Processing Uncertainty: While USCIS stated that delays should be brief and resolved shortly, the practical effect is delay, with some reports suggesting adjudication officers have been told to hold cases until enhanced checks are complete.
What You Should Do Now
Given these unprecedented changes, immigration applicants should take proactive steps:
- Document Everything: If you have any prior contact with law enforcement, gather certified court records now, even for matters you believed were minor or expunged.
- Update Your Address: Confirm that USCIS has your current address through your online account so notices don’t get lost.
- Prepare for Longer Timelines: Expect that processing timelines published before April 27 may now run longer.
- Consider Legal Counsel: The complexity of these changes makes professional guidance more important than ever.
At Tez Law P.C., we’re closely monitoring these developments and helping clients navigate the changing landscape. Our immigration services include comprehensive case preparation that anticipates enhanced screening requirements.
Why Choose Tez Law P.C.
Managing Attorney JJ Zhang (California Bar #326666) brings extensive experience in immigration law during periods of regulatory change. Our nationwide practice understands how policy shifts affect cases across all USCIS offices.
We provide:
- Comprehensive case preparation that anticipates enhanced screening
- Proactive documentation strategies
- Real-time updates on policy changes
- Nationwide representation for all immigration matters
Our firm also handles personal injury attorney cases and offers comprehensive legal services beyond immigration law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to resubmit my fingerprints for pending applications?
No action is required on your part. USCIS handles resubmissions internally using fingerprints already on file from biometrics appointments. However, be prepared for processing delays.
How long will the enhanced security screening take?
While USCIS states delays should be brief, some attorneys report clients may wait up to four months for decisions. Timeline uncertainty makes legal preparation crucial.
Will ICE and CBP eventually receive funding?
Republicans have unveiled a $72 billion budget reconciliation bill to fund ICE and Border Patrol through 2029, which would bypass Democratic opposition. The outcome remains pending congressional action.
The intersection of the DHS funding crisis and enhanced security screening creates an unprecedented challenge for immigration applicants. Don’t navigate this complex landscape alone. Contact Tez Law P.C. for a free consultation to discuss how these changes may affect your case and develop a strategy tailored to the new requirements. Our experienced team is ready to help you achieve your immigration goals despite the current uncertainties.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Tez Law P.C. at 626-678-8677 or [email protected] for advice specific to your situation. Results may vary.