Overview
On January 23, 2026, USCIS announced the temporary closure of several immigration offices across the Midwest due to dangerous weather conditions. The National Weather Service issued extreme cold warnings and winter storm alerts, prompting safety measures for staff and applicants.
Offices Affected
- Chicago, Illinois – Field Office
- Des Moines, Iowa – Field Office
- Minneapolis & St. Paul, Minnesota – Field Offices
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Field Office
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Field Office
These closures also extend to Application Support Centers (ASCs) in the same regions, affecting biometrics appointments.
Impact on Applicants
- Appointments: All scheduled interviews, biometrics, and hearings are postponed.
- Rescheduling: USCIS will automatically reschedule affected appointments; applicants will receive new notices by mail.
- Walk-ins: USCIS does not accept walk-ins; only scheduled appointments are honored once offices reopen.
- Delays: Processing times may be extended due to weather-related disruptions.
Weather Context
- The Upper Midwest is experiencing life-threatening cold with wind chills dropping below –30°F.
- Heavy snow and ice have made travel unsafe, prompting widespread closures of schools, businesses, and government offices.
- Authorities advise residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for prolonged disruptions.
Next Steps
- Applicants should monitor the USCIS Office Closings webpage for updates on reopening.
- Those with urgent immigration needs can contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
- Weather conditions will continue to be monitored, and further closures may be announced if storms persist.
Analysis
The closures highlight the vulnerability of immigration services to extreme weather events. While safety is the priority, the disruption adds to existing backlogs in U.S. immigration processing. For applicants, the key is patience and vigilance in tracking rescheduled appointments.
