A National Day of Mourning and the Impact on USCIS Services

On January 9, 2025, the nation will come together to honor the memory of James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th President of the United States. In recognition of his life and legacy, President Biden has declared this date a National Day of Mourning and has issued an Executive Order closing all Executive Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government on that day. This solemn occasion offers us a moment to reflect on President Carter’s contributions to public service, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts, as we remember his dedication to promoting peace, advocating for human rights, and championing community development across the globe.

In compliance with the Executive Order, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that all their offices will be closed on Thursday, January 9. This closure includes the rescheduling of any interviews, naturalization ceremonies, and other appointments originally set for that day. Anyone affected should expect to receive updated notifications from USCIS with instructions on new appointment dates and times. Rest assured, USCIS has indicated that these details will be communicated promptly to minimize any inconvenience.

For applicants with biometric appointments scheduled on January 9, USCIS has confirmed that new appointment notices will be issued within three weeks. If preferred, individuals can also use the online biometric services appointment rescheduling tool through their USCIS online account to arrange a different date before their scheduled appointment. As a further reminder, the USCIS Contact Center’s live assistance will not be available on January 9; however, the agency’s online tools and resources will remain operational, ensuring that essential information and services stay accessible.

This National Day of Mourning serves as both a tribute to our former president’s enduring legacy and a prompt for us to appreciate the value of public service. While the closure of government offices may cause temporary inconvenience, it underscores the importance of coming together to pay respect to a leader who shaped the nation’s history. Whether you are directly impacted by USCIS closures or simply observing the solemnity of the day, let us all take a moment to reflect on the ideals of leadership, humility, and compassion that President Carter exemplified throughout his life.