No More US Visa Interview Waivers: What this means for you?

In this video, attorney Jacob Sapochnick discusses new changes to the U.S. visa interview waiver policy announced by the State Department and what visa applicants need to know moving forward.

Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State is making significant changes to the categories of applicants eligible for a nonimmigrant visa interview waiver. Under the new policy, most applicants, including children under 14 and seniors over 79, will generally be required to appear for an in-person interview with a U.S. consular officer—with a few notable exceptions.

These changes override the previous Interview Waiver Update issued on February 18, 2025, and will have wide-reaching implications for those planning to travel to the United States on a nonimmigrant visa.

Who May Qualify for an Interview Waiver After September 2nd?

Despite the overall tightening of interview requirements, some categories of applicants may still be eligible to skip the in-person interview, including:

Certain Diplomatic and Official Visa Holders

Applicants under the following visa classes are exempt from the interview requirement:

A-1, A-2 (representatives of foreign governments)
C-3 (excluding attendants or personal staff)
G-1 through G-4 (representatives of international organizations)
NATO-1 through NATO-6
TECRO E-1 (Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office officials)

Diplomatic or Official-Type Visa Applicants

Those applying for visas that support diplomatic or governmental missions may still be eligible for interview waivers.

Applicants Renewing Certain B Visas or Border Crossing Cards

Applicants may qualify for an interview waiver if they meet all the following conditions:

Renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa, or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals)
Renewal is within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration
Were at least 18 years old when the previous visa was issued
Applying from their country of nationality or residence
Have never been refused a visa (unless the refusal was later overcome or waived) and
Have no apparent or potential ineligibility for a U.S. visa

Important Reminders

Case-by-case discretion: Even if you qualify for an interview waiver, a consular officer may still require you to attend an interview for any reason.
Check your local embassy or consulate’s website: Each post may have specific instructions and processing timelines. This is essential for understanding current operating status, document requirements, and scheduling procedures.

Tips to Prepare for this Policy Change

Start the visa application process early: If you know your visa will expire soon and you may qualify for a waiver, you must renew your visa before the new rules take effect.
Stay informed: Rules and processes may vary between embassies and consulates, do your research.
Get help: If you need assistance expediting your visa process, contact an attorney to evaluate your eligibility and help prepare your application.

What to Expect Moving Forward

Unfortunately, these new policies reinstating in-person visa interviews for most visa applicants will cause delays in the application process. It’s especially important for frequent travelers and business professionals to plan ahead and account for longer processing times if interviews are required.

If you are a frequent traveler who previously relied on waived interviews for renewals, ensure your application timing and documents meet the new, stricter standards.

For more information, please click here.

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