US Scraps Interview Waiver for Visas, Effective from September 2
The U.S. Department of State has announced a significant change in its visa application process, effective September 2, 2025. This update will see nearly all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those seeking renewals, required to attend in-person interviews at U.S. consulates or embassies [1][2][3][4][5].
Under the new policy, applicants in most visa categories, such as H-1B, L-1, E-1, E-2, O-1, TN, F-1, J-1, and their dependents, will be required to attend interviews, regardless of prior eligibility for waivers [1][2]. Previously, exemptions based on age, for applicants under 14 or over 79, have been removed, meaning even these individuals must appear in person [1][2].
A limited group, including those applying for certain diplomatic visas and B-1/B-2 renewals under specific conditions (prior visa full-validity, expired within 12 months, and issued when applicant was 18 or older), will remain eligible for interview waivers [2]. This policy represents a tightening from prior rules, as it expands interview requirements to nearly all visa renewals [3][4][5].
This change will affect most U.S. visa renewals, meaning applicants will need to schedule and appear for an interview starting September 2, 2025, as the previous interview waiver (Dropbox) exceptions have largely been discontinued [1][2][3][4][5].
Meanwhile, the U.S. immigration crackdown has led to a significant decrease in Indian student visas. Applicants who have been refused a visa in the past can still apply, unless the refusal was not overcome or waived. It is advised that applicants visit the embassy and consulate websites for detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, as well as to learn about the embassy or consulate's operating status and services [6].
Applicants with no apparent or potential ineligibility are encouraged to apply. They should apply in their country of nationality or residence. It is important to note that applicants must have been at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa's issuance [7]. The new guidance on visa applications supersedes the State Department's interview waiver update of Feb. 18 [8]. This new guidance applies to Indian students who are applying for visas within 12 months of the prior visa's expiration [9].
Applicants are advised to check the embassy or consulate websites for the most current guidance on visa applications.
Travel plans might necessitate earlier visa applications due to the upcoming changes in the U.S. visa process, as most renewals will require in-person interviews at U.S. consulates or embassies starting September 2, 2025. This revised lifestyle, with more personal appearances required for visa applications, may impact those planning extended stays or frequent travel to the U.S.
