Interview Waiver Policy Update: What Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants Need to Know
The U.S. Department of State has announced a significant change to its interview waiver policy, effective September 2, 2025. This update narrows the eligibility for nonimmigrant visa applicants to renew their visas at a U.S. consulate abroad without an in-person interview.
At Heckler Law Group, we know how critical timing and consular access are to your visa strategy. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and how it may impact your travel or renewal plans.
Who Still Qualifies for an Interview Waiver?
Starting September 2, 2025, most all nonimmigrant visa applicants will be required to attend an in-person consular interview, with only two narrow exceptions:
1. Diplomatic and official visa holders in categories such as A 1, A 2, C 3 (excluding attendants), G 1 through G 4, NATO 1 through NATO 6, and TECRO E 1
2. Applicants renewing a full-validity B 1, B 2, or Border Crossing Card (issued when the applicant was at least 18), applying within 12 months of expiration, with no prior refusals or visa complications, and applying in their country of nationality or residence
Key Points to Remember
• These changes replace the previous interview waiver policy dated February 18, 2025.
• Consular officers retain full discretion to require an in-person interview, regardless of waiver eligibility.
• Visa applicants should continue to monitor the official U.S. embassy or consulate website in their country for the most up-to-date information on procedures and operating status.
What This Means for You
This policy applies only to certain nonimmigrant visa applicants renewing visas abroad. It does not apply to those filing an extension or change of status within the United States, nor does it restore interview waiver eligibility to H 1B, L 1, F 1, J 1, O 1, or other employment- or student-based categories.
Plan Ahead
With in-person interviews returning as the norm for most categories, appointment availability may be limited—particularly at high-volume consulates. If you have international travel planned or are preparing to renew your visa abroad, now is the time to understand how this change may affect your timing.
How We Can Help
We assist individuals, families, and employers with strategic planning for consular visa applications and interview waiver eligibility. If you have upcoming travel or questions about how this policy affects you, we recommend scheduling a consultation so we can review your immigration history and advise accordingly.
Heckler Law Group is ready to guide your company through the detailed nature of U.S. immigration to ensure a smooth process. Get started by requesting a free case evaluation, and our team will contact you promptly.