On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced new rules for scheduling nonimmigrant visa (NIV) interviews. Applicants must now generally schedule their appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
If an applicant tries to schedule outside their home country, the interview may not be honored — and the fee cannot be refunded or transferred.
Key Changes
- Residence-Based Requirement: Applicants must show that they live in the country where they are applying.
- Designated Locations: For nationals of countries where the U.S. is not providing routine visa services, DOS has designated alternate consulates:
- Afghanistan – Islamabad, Pakistan
- Belarus – Warsaw, Poland; Vilnius, Lithuania; or Yerevan, Armenia
- Burma (Myanmar) – Bangkok, Thailand
- Cuba – Georgetown, Guyana
- Eritrea – Nairobi, Kenya
- Iran – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Russia – Astana, Kazakhstan or Warsaw, Poland
- Somalia – Nairobi, Kenya
- South Sudan – Nairobi, Kenya
- Syria – Amman, Jordan
- Ukraine – Krakow or Warsaw, Poland
- Venezuela – Bogota, Colombia
- Yemen – Djibouti, Djibouti; Cairo, Egypt; or Amman, Jordan
- Existing Appointments: NIV interviews that have already been scheduled will not be cancelled under the new rule.
- Exceptions: Diplomats, UN travelers, NATO personnel, and rare humanitarian cases are not affected.
- Longer Wait Times: Applicants applying outside their country of residence should expect delays.
Why This Matters
This update directly affects students, workers, and visitors from countries where U.S. consular services are suspended or limited. For example:
- Iranian nationals must now apply in Dubai.
- Ukrainian nationals must travel to Poland.
- Afghan nationals must apply in Islamabad.
These requirements will likely increase travel costs, planning time, and appointment backlogs at designated consulates.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Confirm your consulate: Always check the correct location before scheduling an appointment.
- Plan ahead: If your designated consulate is in a third country, factor in travel and visa requirements for that country.
- Avoid rescheduling outside your residence country: Visa fees will not transfer.
- Document your residence: Be prepared to show proof of residence at your appointment.
Final Thoughts
The State Department’s new scheduling rule makes the visa application process stricter, particularly for nationals of countries where U.S. services are limited. Early preparation and clear understanding of designated consulates are essential to avoid delays or wasted fees.
At NPZ Law Group, we guide clients through consular processing worldwide, helping individuals, families, and employers prepare for interviews and respond to these evolving requirements. For assistance with your visa interview scheduling, contact us at 201-670-0006 or visit www.visaserve.com