Applicants seeking U.S. nonimmigrant visas are now advised to schedule their visa interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate located in their country of nationality or residence. According to new guidance, applicants must be able to show that they reside in the country where they are applying if residency is used as the basis for application.
The update warns that those who attempt to schedule interviews outside their country of nationality or residence may face increased difficulty in qualifying for a visa. Additionally, any fees paid for these applications will not be refunded or transferred, and existing appointments generally will not be cancelled.
This policy does not apply to applicants seeking A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, diplomatic-type or official-type visas regardless of classification, or those traveling under the UN Headquarters Agreement.
Further details can be found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-nonimmigrant-visa-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence-sep-6-2025.html.