State Department Narrows Eligibility For Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Waiver

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.

Department of State Expands Interview Waiver Eligibility

The Department of State (“DOS”) has announced that it has has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa. Under the new policy, which will be in effect until December 31, 2021, applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 48 months will be eligible for an interview waiver when applying for a new nonimmigrant visa in the same classification. Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa had expired within 24 months were eligible for an interview waiver. DOS has indicated this change will reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission as it will further limit the number of applicants who must appear at a consular section.

Applicants are encouraged to review the website of the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where they wish to apply for eligibility information and instructions on applying for a visa without an interview or to contact their D&S professional prior to booking travel.