The U.S. Department of State has issued updated guidance requiring most nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants to schedule their visa interviews in their country of nationality or in their country of legal residence. This update replaces earlier guidelines on third-country processing and is intended to streamline the global visa appointment system.
Key Policy Changes
1. Applicants Must Apply in Their Country of Nationality or Residence
Applicants must schedule their interviews at:
- The U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality, or
- The U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence, provided they can demonstrate lawful residence.
Applying in a third country may make it more difficult for the applicant to qualify for a visa, and consular officers may refuse the visa if they cannot assess ties appropriately.
2. Designated Locations for Specific Nationalities
For nationals of countries where the United States is not currently conducting routine NIV services, the Department of State has assigned alternative consular posts.
Designated Locations for Nonimmigrant Visa Processing
| Nationality | Designated Location(s) |
| Afghanistan | Islamabad |
| Belarus | Vilnius, Warsaw |
| Burkina Faso | Lome |
| Chad | Yaoundé |
| Cuba | Georgetown |
| Haiti | Nassau |
| Iran | Dubai |
| Libya | Tunis |
| Niger | Lome |
| Russia | Astana, Warsaw |
| Somalia | Nairobi |
| South Sudan | Nairobi |
| Sudan | Cairo |
| Syria | Amman |
| Ukraine | Krakow, Warsaw |
| Venezuela | Bogota |
| Yemen | Riyadh |
| Zimbabwe | Johannesburg |
Nationals of these countries must apply at the designated post unless they legally reside in another country, in which case they may apply where they reside.
3. Fees Are Nonrefundable and Nontransferable
The State Department emphasizes:
- Visa fees will not be refunded, even if the applicant is refused.
- Fees also cannot be transferred to another consular post.
- Applying outside one’s country of nationality or residence may increase the likelihood of refusal.
4. Longer Appointment Wait Times in Third Countries
Applicants applying outside their nationality or residence country should expect longer wait times, as consular posts prioritize local residents. Appointment availability can vary widely across regions.
5. Existing Appointments Will Not Generally Be Cancelled
Applicants with previously scheduled visa appointments can expect them to proceed, unless the relevant consulate communicates otherwise.
6. Exceptions to the Policy
This guidance does not apply to:
- A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visa categories
- Diplomatic- or official-type visas
- Travel governed under the UN Headquarters Agreement
Limited exceptions may also be granted in cases of:
- Humanitarian emergencies
- Medical emergencies
- Foreign policy considerations
Recommendations for Applicants
- Check the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for local procedures.
- Be prepared to show proof of lawful residence if applying outside your nationality country.
- Plan ahead to avoid delays or possible loss of nonrefundable fees.
- Seek guidance from an immigration attorney, especially if considering third-country processing.
Conclusion
This policy significantly limits third-country visa processing and may affect workers, students, and travelers who previously sought faster appointments outside their home countries. Employers and applicants should adjust timelines and plan mobility strategies carefully.