The U.S. Department of State has announced changes to the interview waiver program for nonimmigrant visas, effective October 1, 2025. These updates significantly reduce the categories of applicants who can obtain a visa without appearing in person before a consular officer.
Key Changes Effective October 1, 2025
- Most applicants must attend an interview.
Applicants under 14 or over 79 will no longer automatically qualify for an interview waiver. - Limited exceptions remain. Applicants may still be eligible for an interview waiver if they fall into one of the following groups:
- Holders of diplomatic or official visas, including A, G, NATO, or TECRO E-1 categories.
- Applicants renewing a B-1/B-2 visitor visa (or Border Crossing Card for certain Mexican applicants) within 12 months of expiration, if the prior visa was issued at full validity and the applicant was at least 18 at the time.
- Applicants renewing an H-2A temporary agricultural worker visa within 12 months of expiration, under similar conditions.
- Additional requirements apply. To qualify, applicants must:
- Apply in their country of nationality or usual residence (except for certain diplomatic cases).
- Never have been refused a visa (unless the refusal was later waived or overcome).
- Have no apparent or potential ineligibility.
- Consular discretion remains. Even if an applicant meets the waiver criteria, consular officers can still require an interview on a case-by-case basis.
What This Means for Applicants
These changes mean that most nonimmigrant visa applicants will need to plan for in-person interviews going forward. Families, students, and workers who previously benefited from waivers will need to account for longer wait times, especially in high-volume consulates. Employers sponsoring foreign workers should also build in extra time when planning travel or project timelines.
NPZ Guidance
Visa processing requirements continue to evolve, and applicants should always confirm current embassy or consulate procedures before scheduling travel. At NPZ Law Group, we guide individuals, families, and businesses through the visa application process and provide strategies to minimize delays. Contact us if you need help understanding how these changes may affect your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who still qualifies for an interview waiver after October 1, 2025?
Certain diplomatic visa holders, B-1/B-2 visa renewals, and H-2A renewals under limited conditions.
2. Can children under 14 or adults over 79 skip the interview?
No. Under the new policy, those age-based exemptions no longer apply.
3. If I was refused a visa in the past, can I qualify for a waiver now?
Only if the refusal was overcome or waived. Otherwise, you must attend an interview.
4. Do consulates have the final say on waivers?
Yes. Even if you meet all criteria, a consular officer can still require an interview.
5. How should I prepare under the new rules?
Plan ahead for an interview, review your documentation carefully, and check the U.S. embassy or consulate website where you will apply for the most up-to-date requirements.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.