The U.S. Department of State is rolling back its pandemic-era policy on visa interview waivers, meaning most nonimmigrant visa applicants will once again need to attend in-person interviews starting September 2, 2025.
Under the new policy, all applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas, including children under 14 and adults over 79, will generally be required to appear for a visa interview with a consular officer, unless they meet very specific exceptions.
Who is Still Eligible for an Interview Waiver?
Only a limited group of applicants will qualify for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement:
- Diplomatic and international organization staff: Applicants with A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants or personal employees), G-1 through G-4, and NATO-1 through NATO-6 visas.
- Diplomatic- or official-type visa applicants
- Certain renewing travelers: Applicants renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Mexican Border Crossing Card within 12 months of expiration may still be eligible for a waiver if they:
- Apply in their country of nationality or residence
- Were at least 18 years old when their prior visa was issued
- Have never been refused a visa (unless the refusal was overcome or waived)
- Have no apparent or potential ineligibility
Even if you’re eligible for a waiver, a consular officer may still require an in-person interview.
What This Means for Applicants
This policy change will impact thousands of travelers who previously qualified for interview waivers, including students, workers, and family visitors, by adding another step and potential delay to the visa process.
What to expect:
- Longer wait times: In-person appointments may be harder to secure, especially at busy embassies and consulates.
- Travel planning required: Applicants must now budget time and travel costs for their visa interviews.
- Fewer exemptions for children and seniors: Most under-14 and over-79 applicants were previously exempt from interviews but will now need to appear in person unless covered by the exceptions above.
- Renewal limits: Even those renewing B visas must meet strict requirements and apply within a 12-month window to skip the interview.
What to Do Now
If you’re planning to apply for a nonimmigrant visa:
- Check your eligibility: See if you qualify under the updated interview waiver rules.
- Apply before September 2 if you qualify for a waiver under the current policy.
- Monitor consulate websites: Each U.S. embassy or consulate may have slightly different procedures, appointment availability, and local guidelines.