Important Update to U.S. Visa Interview Waiver Policy

Effective October 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will implement further changes to the nonimmigrant visa interview waiver program. This update, which supersedes prior guidance, and when compared to the July 25, 2025 release, this has expanded the scope of interview wavier eligibility to certain H2B applicants.

The revised policy marks a return to more traditional visa processing, with a general requirement for all nonimmigrant visa applicants to attend an interview. This includes individuals who were previously exempt based on age, specifically those under 14 and over 79.

Key Changes and Eligibility Criteria

Under the new policy, only a limited number of applicants will be eligible for an interview waiver. These exemptions are as follows:

• Official and Diplomatic Visas: This includes applicants for visas under the classifications of A-1, A-2, C-3 (with certain exceptions), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1.
• Certain Visa Renewals: Applicants renewing a B-1 (business visitor), B-2 (tourist visitor), B1/B2, or Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican applicants) may be eligible, provided they meet strict criteria. The prior visa must have been issued for full validity, the applicant must have been at least 18 years old at the time of issuance, and the renewal must be sought within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration.
• H-2A Visa Renewals: Applicants renewing an H-2A visa are also eligible for an interview waiver under the same conditions as B-1/B-2 renewals (full validity, age 18+, and renewal within 12 months of expiration).

To qualify for an interview waiver under any of the eligible categories, an applicant must also meet these additional requirements:

• They must apply in their country of nationality or usual residence (with the exception of diplomatic and certain official visa applicants).
• They must have no prior visa refusals, unless such a refusal was later overcome or waived.
• They must have no apparent or potential visa ineligibilities.

Discretionary Power of Consular Officers

It is crucial to note that even if an applicant meets all of the above criteria, a consular officer retains the authority to require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis for any reason. This means that an interview waiver is never guaranteed.

Impact on Applicants

The new policy is expected to have a significant impact on visa processing, particularly for students, temporary workers, and other nonimmigrant visa applicants who are no longer eligible for the expanded interview waiver program that was in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants in these categories should prepare for longer wait times for visa appointments and should plan their travel accordingly.

We recommend that all visa applicants consult the website of the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where they plan to apply to stay informed about local requirements, procedures, and appointment availability.

Our firm is closely monitoring these changes and their potential impact on our clients and we will continue to update on this important topic.