US Tightens Non-Immigrants' Visa Interview Waiver Rules

Exemptions are limited to certain diplomatic visas and renewals of B1/B2 visas

- AGENCIES

The U.S. Department of State has announced significant changes to its non-immigrant visa interview waiver policy, effective September 2, 2025. Under the updated rules, nearly all applicants—including children under 14 and seniors over 79—will generally be required to attend an in-person interview with a U.S. consular officer, a move that tightens visa procedures substantially.

Previously, applicants in certain age groups were routinely exempt from interviews, but this new directive narrows the exceptions significantly. According to the State Department's July 25 announcement, exemptions will now primarily apply to holders of diplomatic or official visas (such as categories A, G, and NATO) and applicants renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visa within 12 months of the prior visa's expiration. To qualify for this interview waiver, these applicants must also apply from their country of nationality or residence, have no prior visa refusals (unless overturned), and have no apparent ineligibility. The statement emphasized that consular officers retain the discretion to require interviews on a case-by-case basis regardless of eligibility.