The U.S. Department of State’s updated policy on nonimmigrant visa (NIV) interview appointments, effective September 6, 2025, introduces significant changes that impact applicants worldwide. Here is a detailed breakdown of the key elements:
1. Designated Application Locations
Applicants must schedule visa interviews at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
Nationals of countries where the United States does not process NIV interview appointments must apply at designated embassies/consulates (e.g., Afghan applicants in Islamabad, Russian applicants in Astana or Warsaw). See the list at the end of this article.
Any person who does not apply from their country of nationality must provide proof of residency if they apply based on residency in a country where they are not a national.
2. Key Implications for Applicants
Longer wait times: Applicants scheduling outside their home country face significantly delayed appointments.
No refunds: Fees paid for applications outside designated locations are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Stricter qualification: Applying outside one’s home country may increase the difficulty of visa approval.
Existing appointments: Remain unchanged unless rescheduled.
3. Exceptions
Exempt categories: Diplomatic officials, A, G, C-2, C-3, and NATO visas are excluded from the requirement, and applicants can submit applications from a third country.
Humanitarian/medical emergencies: Rare exceptions may be granted by the immigration services.
Interview waivers: Limited to specific B visa renewals within 12 months of expiration (e.g., full-validity B-1/B-2 renewals by applicants aged 18+ at prior issuance).
4. Global Impact
High-demand countries (e.g., India): Wait times for B1/B2 interviews range from 3.5 months (Hyderabad/Mumbai) to 9 months (Chennai).
Third-country processing: Previously allowed for faster appointments is now restricted.
Designated posts: See the table below list the countries where the USA does not process NIV, and the alternate locations for nationalities from these countries to apply for a NIV.
5. Interview Waiver Changes
Effective September 2, 2025, the United States Department has eliminated previously exempt groups (e.g., children under 14 and adults over 79).
Waivers only apply to: Applicants for Diplomats/official visas (A-1, A-2, G-1–G-4, NATO-1–NATO-6).
B-1, B-2 and B1l/B2 visa renewals meeting specific criteria (renewing within 12 months of the prior visa expiration, applying in their home country, no prior refusals, no ineligibilities).
6. Additional Requirements
Social media vetting: F, M, and J visa applicants must set social media profiles to “public” for identity checks.
DS-160 form: NIV applicants must submit the form accurately, with confirmation barcodes matching appointment details.
7. Recommendations for Applicants
Plan: Schedule appointments well in advance to allow for potential delays.
Check embassy websites: Verify local procedures, operating status, and document requirements.
Expedited requests: Only approved for urgent emergencies (e.g., medical crises, funerals), not for weddings or tourism.
Designated Nonimmigrant Visa Processing Locations for Countries Where NIV Applications are Suspended
|
|
| Country of Nationality |
Designated U.S. Embassy/Consulate Location(s) |
| Afghanistan |
Islamabad |
| Belarus |
Vilnius, Warsaw |
| Chad |
Yaoundé |
| Cuba |
Georgetown |
| Haiti |
Nassau |
| Iran |
Dubai |
| Libya |
Tunis |
| Niger |
Ouagadougou |
| Russia |
Astana, Warsaw |
| Somalia |
Nairobi |
| South Sudan |
Nairobi |
| Sudan |
Cairo |
| Syria |
Amman |
| Ukraine |
Krakow, Warsaw |
| Venezuela |
Bogota |
| Yemen |
Riyadh |
| Zimbabwe |
Johannesburg |
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