Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will impose stricter interview requirements for most nonimmigrant visas. The updated policy will generally require most nonimmigrant visa applicants, including applicants under the age of 14 and over the age of 79, to attend an in-person interview with a consular officer. 

The only applicants who may be eligible for an interview waiver include: 

• Applicants classifiable under the visa symbols A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants, servants, or personal employees of accredited officials), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1; 
• Applicants for diplomatic- or official-type visas; and 
• Applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration, and who were at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa’s issuance. 

For applicants renewing a B visa or Border Crossing Card/Foil within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration, they must also (1) apply in their country of nationality or residence; (2) have no previous visa refusals (unless such refusal was overcome or waived); and (3) have no apparent or potential ineligibility issues. Consulates may still require in-person interviews for visa interview waiver applicants on a case-by-case basis. 

This policy supersedes the Interview Waiver Update of February 18, 2025 and is expected to significantly increase wait times for in-person visa interviews at consulates worldwide. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to plan ahead. If your visa expires within the next 12-18 months, consider applying for renewal as soon as possible.  

 As always, Foster attorneys are available for consultations to address travel-related issues or concerns. Foster also provides periodic updates on the firm’s website at www.fosterglobal.com and social media.