The U.S. Department of State has announced significant changes to its visa interview waiver policy, set to take effect from September 2. Under the new rules, all non-immigrant visa applicants — including children under 14 and adults over 79 — will generally be required to appear for an in-person interview with a consular officer.
This policy applies to all non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist and business (B-1/B-2), student (F and M), work (H-1B), and exchange visitor (J) visas. Diplomatic visas under categories A and G are also included.
The update, issued on July 25 as part of enhanced security measures, has raised concerns among H-1B holders and other visa applicants about possible delays and extended processing times.
While most applicants will now require in-person interviews, certain limited exceptions may apply, which the consular officer will determine on a case-by-case basis.
The U.S. Department of State has issued updated guidance on its visa interview waiver policy, which will come into effect on September 2. While most non-immigrant visa applicants will now require an in-person interview, certain categories remain exempt:
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Diplomatic or Official Visa Holders: Applicants under visa symbols A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding attendants, servants, or personal employees), G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6, and TECRO E-1.
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Diplomatic or Official-Type Visas: Individuals applying for diplomatic or official-type visas.
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B-1/B-2 Visa Renewals: Applicants renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, or combined B1/B2 visa within 12 months of its expiration, provided they were 18 years or older at the time of issuance of the prior visa.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified that consular officers still retain discretion to mandate in-person interviews, regardless of eligibility for a waiver.
“This update supersedes the previous interview waiver policy issued on February 18, 2025,” USCIS stated. “Consular officers may request an in-person interview at their discretion for any reason.”
Applicants are strongly encouraged to check the official websites of U.S. embassies or consulates for specific information regarding visa application procedures, current processing timelines, and operational status. (Agencies)
