Visa renewal applications in the United States will no longer include interview waivers, set to take effect starting from September.
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced significant changes to the visa interview waiver policy, effective from September 2, 2025. These changes will affect a wide range of nonimmigrant visa categories, including business and tourist visas (B-1/B-2), employment-based visas, student and exchange visitor visas, and many others.
Impact on B-1/B-2 Visa Applicants
Starting September 2, 2025, the interview waiver will no longer be available for most B-1/B-2 visa applicants, including those seeking new visas or renewals. However, renewals within 12 months of visa expiration will still be eligible for the interview waiver.
Mandatory In-Person Interviews for Most Categories
From September 2, 2025, in-person interviews will be required for the following visa categories:
- Employment-based visas: H-1B, L-1, O-1, E-1, E-2
- Student and exchange visitor visas: F-1 and J-1
- All other nonimmigrant visa categories not specifically exempted
Age-Based Exemptions Eliminated
Previously, applicants under 14 and over 79 years old were exempt from the interview requirement. However, this exemption has been eliminated, and applicants in these age groups will now be required to attend an interview.
Effects of the Changes
These changes could lead to longer processing times and the added hassle of planning travel for the interview. Immigration attorney Johnson L. Myalil recommends checking for available visa appointments prior to September 2, 2021, for those planning to renew visas.
These changes reverse earlier flexibilities expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic and further reduce the eligibility criteria narrowed in February 2025. Consular officers retain discretion but the broad policy requires mostly in-person interviews.
Applicants and employers should anticipate longer processing times, possible delays, and plan travel and renewals accordingly.
[1] U.S. Department of State - Changes to Visa Interview Waiver Policy
[2] Immigration Attorney Johnson L. Myalil - Changes to Visa Interview Waiver Policy
[3] ABC News - U.S. Tightens Visa Interview Waiver Policy
[4] CNN - U.S. to Require In-Person Interviews for Most Visa Applicants
[5] The New York Times - U.S. to Require In-Person Interviews for Most Visa Applicants
- The changes in the visa interview waiver policy, effective from September 2, 2025, will necessitate in-person interviews for numerous visa categories, particularly those in the realm of employment-based visas such as H-1B, L-1, O-1, E-1, E-2, student and exchange visitor visas like F-1 and J-1, and other nonimmigrant visa categories.
- The latest policy shift on visa interview waivers, starting from September 2, 2025, will impact the financial and logistical aspects for individuals and employers, as it may lead to extended processing times, possible delays, and increased expenses associated with travel for in-person interviews.
