US government shutdown could slow visa process

Apr 6, 2011, 19:57 GMT

Washington - The US State Department warned Wednesday that the budget dispute between the White House and Congress could slow the visa application process at embassies and consulates throughout the world.

US President Barack Obama is locked in a test of wills with Republican leadership in Congress, who are seeking deep cuts in federal spending. If the differences cannot be resolved, the US government's non-essential services could grind to a halt at midnight Friday, when the current spending bill expires.

State Department spokesman Mark Toner said the agency is working on contingency plans in the event of a shutdown to accommodate foreigners seeking visas or US citizens in need of passports. But he said there could be an effect on the application process because of personnel shortages.

'There would be an impact, obviously, if only because of the effect of reduced personnel,' Toner said. 'But it's hard for me to say right now whether that would be a significant slowdown or beyond that.'

Toner urged individuals seeking visas or scheduled for interviews early next week to check embassy websites for updates on the status of consular services.

The White House and Democratic leaders in Congress remain in intense negotiations with Republicans to end the standoff. Obama and the Democrats worry severe cuts in federal spending could endanger the fragile economic recovery.

US officials estimate up to 800,000 federal employees could be furloughed if a deal is not reached.

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