On February 18, 2025, the State Department narrowed the categories of applicants eligible for a nonimmigrant visa interview waiver, rescinding a 2023 update that had expanded eligibility. Under the updated program, consular offices have the authority and discretion to waive the in-person interview only for the following categories:
Applicants who previously held a visa in the same category that expired within the 12 months prior to the new application;
A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1; and
Applicants for diplomatic- or official-type visas.
To be eligible for the waiver, these applicants must also meet the following criteria:
Apply in their country of nationality or residence;
Have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived); and
Have no apparent or potential ineligibility.
This update to narrow eligibility is expected to increase appointment wait times.
It is important to note that the State Department has granted Consular Officers discretion to waive the in person interviews for individuals who meet the above criteria. However, each Consular Post retains discretion with respect to how these waivers can be requested and under what circumstances it will grant interview waivers. As such, eligibility for an interview waiver does not guarantee that one will be granted in any specific case.