The U.S. Embassy has outlined the details of its Interview Waiver Program for nonimmigrant visa renewals, which aims to simplify the renewal process by allowing certain applicants to bypass an in-person interview.
Eligibility for this program requires that the applicant's previous visa is still valid or expired within the last 48 months. Additionally, applicants must not have been refused a visa in the past unless such refusal was resolved or waived. The application must be made in their country of nationality or residence, and applicants should not have any criminal record, deportation history, or denial of entry into the United States. It is important to note that "applicants born in Cuba are NOT eligible for a waiver of the visa interview," even if other conditions are met.
Applicants interested in renewing their visas through this program must follow specific instructions available on the embassy's website. During the online application process, they will answer questions to determine eligibility for an interview waiver. If eligible, they will receive instructions on document submission at a designated Document Service Center or courier location. Ineligible applicants will need to schedule an appointment for an in-person interview.
Required documents include a valid passport, a recent photograph measuring 2 x 2 inches, the DS-160 application confirmation page, and any unexpired previous visas. The current processing time under this program is approximately one to two weeks from submission at the Document Service Center but may vary based on workload.
Applicants can apply for renewal before their current visa expires. However, children over age 14 who were issued their first visa under age 14 must appear in person due to fingerprinting requirements.
If a previous visa was lost or stolen, individuals are not eligible for processing under this program and must attend an in-person interview instead.
In cases where applicants initially qualify for an interview-waived appointment but later receive notification to appear for an interview, it is because "eligibility for an interview waiver does not automatically entitle an applicant to that waiver." A consular officer may request additional information requiring personal attendance.
For further inquiries about the process or general questions about visas, contact information is available on the embassy's website.
“Ask the Consul” provides monthly insights into U.S. immigration law and consular topics with more detailed information accessible through various official websites listed by the embassy.
The embassy advises applicants against relying on third-party advice due to frequent changes in consular processes and potential inaccuracies from non-U.S. government advisors.