The consular posts world-wide revised the eligibility criteria for renewal of visa through the drop box (interview waiver program) earlier this year. Applicants eligible for the drop box are now required to submit the passport for renewal at least 15 calendar days prior to the expiry of 12 months from the date of expiry of visa. Earlier one could submit up to 7 calendar days prior to expiry of 12 months from date of expiry of visa. 

It may also be recalled that visa renewals through drop box was permitted for up to 4 years from the date of expiry of previous visa in certain categories. This was revised earlier in 2025 without any prior intimation or warning. 

It is important for nonimmigrant visa applicant to be cognizant of this change in eligibility criteria for renewal of visas through drop box.