Drastic Narrowing of Visa Interview Waivers by State Department

 

On 07/25/2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released an update that drastically tightens eligibility for nonimmigrant visa interview waivers, effective 09/02/2025. This policy supersedes the previous 02/18/2025 guidance, and marks a major shift away from the more flexible interview waiver practices adopted during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Major Changes:

Most nonimmigrant visa applicants for H-1B, L1, E1, E2, F, etc., including minors under 14 and seniors over 79, who were previously exempt, will now generally be required to appear in person for an interview with a consular officer.

Only the following narrow groups of applicants will qualify for an interview waiver after 09/02/2025, including:

1. Certain Diplomatic and Official Visa Categories: A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding attendants or servants), G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6, and TECRO E-1
2. Diplomatic or Official-Type Visa Applicants
3. B-1/B-2/B1-B2 or Border Crossing Card Renewals (Mexican Nationals): Applicants renewing a full-validity visa or card within 12 months of expiration and who:

• Were at least 18 years old when the prior visa was issued
• Apply from their country of nationality or residence
• Have never been refused a visa (unless refusal was overcome or waived)
• Have no apparent or potential ineligibility

Note: Even if an applicant qualifies under the above categories, consular officers may still require an in-person interview at their discretion.  Embassy-specific procedures vary.  Applicants should consult the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate website for local processing rules and service availability.

Impact on Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants:

Applicants for nonimmigrant visas such as H-1B, L1A, L1B, E1, E2, F1, F2, etc., should expect longer wait times and increased demand for visa interview appointments. Applicants renewing H, L, F, M, and J visas who previously qualified for the "Dropbox" program will now be subject to interviews, unless covered by one of the narrow exceptions above. Even children and elderly applicants will likely face interview requirements.

Impact on Employers and Universities:

The new policy will have direct impact on U.S. universities and colleges and also employers. They should anticipate delays in onboarding foreign workers and students needing visa stamps abroad.  They should advise employees and workers on timely scheduling of consular appointments and preparation for interview-based adjudication. 

Final Note:

If you're planning to renew a visa, especially a B-1/B-2 or Border Crossing Card, act quickly before the September 2 deadline to benefit from the current, more lenient waiver policies.   For all others, prepare for interviews — and consult an immigration attorney to determine eligibility and strategy.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)