US Eliminates Interview Waivers for Nearly All Visa Types

Today, September 2, 2025, the US State Department ends the majority of the interview waiver provisions for non-immigrant visas. This shift means that most applicants, including students, workers, and frequent travelers, must now attend in-person visa interviews at a US embassy or consulate.

The policy change applies to nearly all major visa classifications, including H-1B, L-1, F-1, J-1, O-1, and B-1/B-2, with only a few exceptions, such as for certain diplomatic visa holders or individuals holding full-validity B visas.

Previously, interview waivers were available for low-risk groups such as minors under 14, seniors above 79, and individuals renewing certain visa types like H-1B, F-1, or L-1. Under the new policy, these exemptions have been terminated.

Waiver provisions have been eliminated for nationals from at least 57 countries, including Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. Every applicant must now attend an interview.

This change will likely lead to longer wait times for visa appointments and processing, causing delays for travelers planning to visit the US. It is expected to affect tourism, business travel, and academic exchanges, with new additional requirements even deterring some travelers from applying altogether.

This adjustment adds to broader visa-related changes, such as a new $250 visa fee proposed in the Big Beautiful Bill.

Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash