This article discusses US visa interview policy change for 2025. Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) is implementing changes to its visa interview waiver policy, requiring most applicants to attend in-person interviews. This shift impacts a wide range of non-immigrant visa categories and is expected to lead to increased processing times.
Key Changes to US Visa Interview Requirements:
Mandatory In-Person Interviews: The interview waiver program is largely being rolled back. Effective September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants, including those seeking E-1, E-2 (including E-2 Employee Visa, E-2 for Australians, E-2 for Canadians, E-2 for UK Citizens), F-1 (student), H-1B (work), H-2B, J-1 (exchange visitor), L-1 (including L-1 for Canadians, L-1 New Office), O-1 (extraordinary ability)visas, and other nonimmigrant visas are required to attend an in-person interview. This applies even to repeat applicants with a clean history and renewals who previously qualified for waivers.
Age-Based Exemptions Removed: Applicants under age 14 and over 79 are also subject to in-person interviews, eliminating prior age-based exemptions.
Limited Interview Waiver Eligibility Remains For:
B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business) Visa Renewals: Interview waivers remain available for applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visa, or a Border Crossing Card/Foil, provided they meet strict criteria:
Application submitted within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration.
Applicant was at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa’s issuance.
Application submitted in their country of nationality or residence.
No prior visa refusals (unless overcome or waived).
Diplomatic and Official Visas: Interview waivers continue for applicants of A-1, A-2, C-3,G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, and TECRO E-1 visas, as well as those applying for diplomatic or official-type visas.
Consular Discretion: Consular officers retain the right to require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis for any applicant, regardless of waiver eligibility.
Implications for Visa Applicants and Businesses:
Anticipate Delays: Expect significantly longer visa appointment wait times and processing delays at U.S. consulates worldwide, especially in high-volume locations.
Prepare for Interviews: Even repeat applicants with a clean immigration history should prepare for mandatory in-person interviews.
Consular Shopping Risks: The new rule requiring B-1/B-2 waiver applicants to apply in their country of nationality/residence makes “consular shopping” (applying for a visa in a third country) riskier for these categories.
Check Embassy Websites: All applicants should regularly check the official websites of the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where they plan to apply for the latest information on requirements, procedures, and appointment availability.
Malescu Law can assist
This visa interview policy change for 2025 signals a move towards increased scrutiny for most U.S. non-immigrant visa applications. If you need assistance with visa interviews and waivers, contact our experienced immigration lawyers to discuss your case.
We serve companies and individuals across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Anda Malescu is a US immigration lawyer and Florida Bar Board Certified Expert in International Law. A member of the elite category of Florida Bar lawyers recognized for her exceptional knowledge, skill and professionalism, she advises US and international clients, including investors and entrepreneurs, on business immigration and corporate law matters. She holds a JD degree from University of Miami School of Law and a Master's degree in Economics and Business from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She is a member of the Florida Bar.
