Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State will change the rules for nonimmigrant visa interview waivers. Most applicants, including those under 14 and over 79 years old, will now generally need to attend an in-person interview with a consular officer.
There are exceptions to this requirement. Applicants who fall under certain diplomatic or official visa categories—such as A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding attendants or personal employees), G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1—may still be eligible for an interview waiver. Diplomatic or official-type visa applicants are also included in these exceptions.
Another group that may qualify for an interview waiver includes individuals renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of their previous visa’s expiration. These applicants must have been at least 18 years old when their prior visa was issued.
Additional criteria apply to those seeking renewal-based waivers: they must apply from their country of nationality or residence; they must not have had a previous visa refusal unless it was overcome or waived; and there should be no apparent ineligibility issues.
Consular officers retain the authority to require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis. The Department advises all applicants to review embassy and consulate websites for up-to-date information on application requirements and operating status.
This update replaces the earlier Interview Waiver Update issued on February 18, 2025.