07-28-2025 |
Visa Interview Waiver Rollback: Most Applicants Must Interview Starting September 2, 2025
By: Matt J. Mauntel-Medici

The U.S. Department of State has announced a significant change to the way visas are processed. Starting September 2, 2025, most nonimmigrant visa applicants will be required to attend an in-person interview, even if they are renewing a visa in the same category. This is a major change in policy and will result in longer processing times for visas globally.
What’s Ending:
Beginning September 2, interview waivers will no longer be available for most visa categories, including:
- E-1, E-2, F-1, H-1B, J-1, L-1, O-1, and others not listed in the exemptions below.
- This applies even to repeat applicants and renewals.
- Applicants under age 14 or over age 79 will also be required to appear in person — removing the prior age-based exceptions.
What Remains:
Interview waivers will still be allowed for a limited number of applicants, including:
1. B-1/B-2 Visa or Border Crossing Card RenewalsYou may still qualify for an interview waiver if all of the following are true:
- You are renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visa or Border Crossing Card;
- You apply within 12 months of the visa’s expiration;
- You were at least 18 years old when your previous visa was issued;
- You apply in your country of nationality or residence;
- You have never been refused a visa, unless the refusal was overcome or waived;
- You have no apparent or potential ineligibility.
Interview waivers remain in place for:
- A-1, A-2, C-3
- G-1 through G-4
- NATO-1 through NATO-6
- TECRO E-1
- Other diplomatic or official visa types.
Effective Date:
- The changes take effect September 2, 2025.
What This Means for You:
- Expect longer wait times and appointment delays, especially at busy U.S. embassies and consulates.
- If you’re planning work travel, study, or personal visits to the U.S., you will likely need to plan for an in-person interview.
- If you are renewing a B-1/B-2 visa, ensure you meet all the new requirements and apply in your home country to qualify.
- Coupled with higher visa fees, this represents a further potential disruption for timely renewal.
At BrownWinick, we help employers and individuals prepare for changing immigration processes and minimize disruption. If you or your employees need help planning for upcoming visa renewals or travel, our immigration team is here to help.
Contact us to review your options or upcoming deadlines.
