U.S. Visa Interview Waiver Update – July 25, 2025
What’s new?
Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State is tightening its interview waiver policy. From that date onward, most nonimmigrant visa applicants will generally require an in‑person interview with a consular officer. This change also affects applicants below the age of 14 and above 79, groups that were previously exempt from in-person interviews under temporary waivers in recent years. The new rule marks a return to more stringent pre-pandemic practices.
Who Still Qualifies for an Interview Waiver?
Only a limited set of applicants will remain eligible to skip the in-person interview under the updated policy:
- Individuals applying for diplomatic or official visas, such as A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding personal staff or attendants), G-1 to G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6, and TECRO E-1 visas.
- Applicants renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visa, or a Mexican Border Crossing Card (BCC), as long as:
- The application is submitted within 12 months of the visa’s expiration,
- The applicant was at least 18 years old at the time the previous visa was issued.
To qualify under the renewal category, applicants must also:
- Apply in their country of nationality or residence,
- Have never been refused a U.S. visa (unless such a refusal was later rescinded or waived),
- And have no apparent eligibility issues.
Why the change?
This update represents a rollback of the more generous interview waiver rules that had been in effect during the pandemic and peak post-pandemic period. The newer guidelines restore the requirement for most applicants to appear in person, aligning with efforts to maintain standards for consular processing and safeguard against fraud.
Notably, the previous waiver update dated February 18, 2025, which allowed waivers for a broader group—including renewals within 12 months—has now been replaced by the September 2025 rule change.
What should applicants do?
If you previously qualified for an interview waiver, check whether you still do under the new criteria.
If your visa falls within the categories still eligible (e.g. a diplomatic visa or eligible B‑visa renewal), ensure you meet the renewal timing and residency requirements.
Otherwise, plan for an in‑person interview appointment. Wait times may vary, so check your local U.S. embassy or consulate’s visa information page for instructions and scheduling guidance.
Consular officers still have discretion to require an interview on a case-by-case basis, so meeting the criteria doesn’t guarantee a waiver in all cases.
Summary Table
Effective Date Who Generally Needs an Interview Who May Still Qualify for a Waiver
September 2, 2025 Most nonimmigrant visa applicants, including children (<14) and seniors (>79) Diplomatic/official visa holders; recent B‑visa or border card renewals (within 12 months, aged 18+ at prior issue, national/resident country)