The U.S. Department of State has announced significant changes to the nonimmigrant visa interview waiver policy, effective September 2, 2025. This update rolls back pandemic-era flexibility and will impact a wide range of visa applicants, including those applying for H-1B, O-1, F-1, and J-1 visas.
What Is Changing
• In-person interviews will now be required for most nonimmigrant visa applicants, including children under 14 and seniors over 79, who were previously exempt.
• Limited categories of applicants may still qualify for an interview waiver:
- Certain diplomatic and official visa holders (A, C, G, NATO, and TECRO E-1 visas)
- B-1/B-2 or Border Crossing Card renewals filed within 12 months of expiration, where the applicant was at least 18 years old when the previous visa was issued and otherwise qualifies.
Who Is Affected
• Applicants for H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, O-1, F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1 visas and their dependents will now generally need to attend an in-person interview.
• Children and seniors will no longer automatically qualify for interview exemptions based on age.
Why This Matters
The State Department’s decision aims to increase security screening and standardize consular processing. As a result, applicants should expect:
• Longer wait times for visa appointments
• Fewer dropbox appointments and reduced access to streamlined renewals
• Greater need to plan ahead for interview scheduling
What Applicants Should Do
1. Check your eligibility if renewing a B-1/B-2 visa to see if you meet the limited waiver criteria.
2. Plan for an in-person interview, even if you’ve previously been exempt.
3. Book appointments early, as available slots are expected to become more limited.
4. Monitor consular updates, as procedures may vary by embassy or consulate.
