Who Qualifies for the US Visa Interview Waiver? New Guidelines & Processing Delays

On September 2, 2025, the US Department of State will implement major changes to its non-immigrant visa interview waiver policies, reverting back to the more restrictive policies and guidelines that existed prior to those in the February update. However, most applicants excluding specific exceptions will have a mandatory in-person consular interview including children under the age of 14 and seniors over the age of 79.

This action aimed at bolstering security has raised alarms about the likelihood of processing delays in the issuance of visas mainly among H-1B visa owners, B-1/B-2 tourists and F-1 students.

Who Is Still Eligible for the Interview Waiver?

Interview waivers will still be applicable to certain categories of applicants which include:

• Diplomats and officials (visa categories A, G, NATO and TECRO E-1).
• Certain applicants renewing a full validity B-1/B-2 visa within 12 months of expiring if:
• They were at least 18 years old on the date of the original issuance.
• They apply from their country of nationality or residence.
• They have never been refused a visa and have never been found to be ineligible for a visa.
• Even if applicants qualify for an interview waiver, consular officers have discretion to require an interview based on the applicant’s overall situation or local conditions.

Lawyers and Applicants Raise Concerns

Immigration lawyer Steven Brown described the move as a “return to the inefficiencies that existed prior to the pandemic” and said that it “eliminates Dropbox for nearly all categories.” He also called requiring interviews for children “patently absurd” and predicted it would mean longer wait times and less efficiency for renewals.

The policy change is part of large, significant immigration reform in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that was signed on July 4 and the change is also a response to heightened security scrutiny. Visa applicants should check their local consulate sites for updated local requirements and wait times.

Read Also: What Is the Einstein Visa? A Guide to O-1 and EB-1A Eligibility and Process