When the U.S. government experiences a shutdown, many international investors pause their immigration plans, thinking that consular or visa processing will come to a complete halt. While it is true that certain government functions may slow down, it is a mistake to stop preparing your E-2 visa application or delay your business purchasing decisions. In fact, continuing to move forward during a shutdown can put you at an advantage once operations resume.
Government Shutdowns Do Not Stop E-2 Business Development
A government shutdown affects certain agencies, but not all aspects of business and immigration. For example:
- U.S. embassies and consulates abroad often continue limited operations, even during shutdowns.
- State and local filings for your U.S. business entity, such as forming an LLC or registering a lease, remain unaffected.
- Private transactions—including purchasing a business, negotiating a franchise agreement, or signing a lease—are not tied to federal funding.
This means you can continue advancing your E-2 visa package even if visa interviews are temporarily delayed.
Why Moving Forward Now Saves You Valuable Time
Every E-2 applicant faces the same reality: preparing a complete visa package takes weeks or even months. Delaying preparation until the shutdown ends can push your timeline back significantly, especially if a backlog builds once adjudications restart.
By continuing to work on your case now, you:
- Stay ahead of the queue. Applicants who wait will likely face longer delays when consulates reopen to full capacity.
- Secure better business opportunities. Waiting too long may mean losing out on good investment deals or prime lease locations.
- Demonstrate commitment. Embassy adjudicators often look for genuine, ongoing efforts to build and launch your U.S. business. Continuing through a shutdown reflects seriousness and long-term planning.
Embassy Adjudicators Value Preparedness
E-2 adjudication is competitive. Officers review many applications, and a well-prepared file that clearly documents your investment, operational readiness, and job creation potential stands out. If your package is ready to submit the moment scheduling resumes, you demonstrate:
- A clear timeline. Your business plan and investment documentation are not rushed or incomplete.
- Investment at risk. You’ve already committed to moving funds, contracts, or leases—key evidence for approval.
- Operational readiness. The fact that you were proactive during a slowdown shows the embassy you are serious about launching, not just waiting passively.
What You Can Do During the Shutdown
Even if government systems are slowed, you can continue:
- Finalizing your business entity formation and EIN.
- Signing or negotiating your commercial lease.
- Completing equipment purchases or franchise agreements.
- Building your business plan with financial projections and job creation goals.
- Gathering source of funds evidence and preparing affidavits or contracts.
- Developing your marketing materials and website, so your business looks professional and investor-ready.
These steps not only advance your E-2 petition, they also build a stronger, more credible U.S. business.
Conclusion: A Shutdown Is a Pause, Not a Stop
While the U.S. government shutdown of 2025 may create uncertainty, smart investors see it as an opportunity. By continuing to build your business, organize your documentation, and prepare your E-2 visa package, you can save months of waiting time and position yourself as a strong applicant ready for approval.
When adjudicators review your case, they will see an applicant who remained committed, proactive, and prepared—even during a government slowdown. That focus and momentum could make all the difference in your visa outcome.