US visa interviews now mandatory as waiver system ends globally
Students and professionals brace for longer waits under new rules
DUBAI – Until now, many applicants for United States non-immigrant visas had been able to skip in-person interviews if they met certain conditions. Children under 14, seniors over 79, and those renewing visas in the same category often benefited from waivers. That convenience has ended.
Starting September 2, 2025, nearly all non-immigrant visa applicants must attend in-person interviews at US embassies and consulates worldwide.
The US Department of State confirmed the move in a statement, saying the age-based and renewal-based exemptions are officially discontinued. While the decision standardises the process globally, it also means longer wait times for visa appointments are likely. This change will affect students, professionals, and frequent travellers who previously enjoyed faster “Dropbox” renewals. Categories like H-1B (skilled workers), L-1 (intra-company transfers), F-1 (students), O-1 (extraordinary ability), and B-1/B-2 (tourism and business) are among those most impacted.
The rule applies broadly, but Indian students heading to US universities this autumn and spring, along with thousands of professionals on H-1B and L-1 visas, will feel the brunt. For countries such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, Cuba, and Iran, these rules had already been enforced without exception. India does not fall into that list, yet Indian applicants must now follow the revised global interview system.
What’s changing
Previously, many applicants renewing visas in the same category could avoid in-person interviews, submitting documents through “Dropbox” instead. This flexibility is now withdrawn. Almost all applicants, including children and seniors, must meet consular officers face-to-face, regardless of whether they are applying afresh or renewing.
There are, however, limited exemptions. Diplomatic and official visa holders, certain international organisation staff, and specific renewals of full-validity B-1/B-2 visas for Mexican nationals may still bypass interviews. Even so, consular officers retain the discretion to request interviews in any case.
For over 55 nationalities – including applicants from Afghanistan, Nigeria, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe – there are no waivers at all. Every non-immigrant visa applicant must appear in person, and this policy is already active without exceptions.
Tighter scheduling rules
The revised system also introduces stricter appointment management. As of January 1, 2025, only one free reschedule per application is permitted. Missing an appointment or rescheduling more than once means paying the visa fee again. This rule is expected to push applicants to plan carefully to avoid financial and travel setbacks.
Another detail concerns documentation. Visa applicants must bring the DS-160 confirmation page used to book their interview. If corrections are made and a new DS-160 form is submitted, both the original and the corrected confirmation pages must be presented on the day of the interview. Otherwise, the applicant will be required to reschedule using the new application number.
Longer wait times
The State Department has cautioned travellers to expect extended delays for interview slots. Appointment availability varies widely depending on location and visa category, and applicants can check waiting periods on the Global Visa Wait Times website.
This change is particularly significant for Indian students preparing for US universities and for professionals in sectors dependent on skilled-worker visas. Tourism and business travel are also expected to slow down as the interview process becomes unavoidable.
Applicants are advised to apply early, prepare documentation with care, and remain aware of the rescheduling rule. With these requirements now universal, forward planning is essential for smooth travel and study arrangements.