Trump Administration Limits Interview Waiver Policy: What Visa Applicants Need to Know (Effective September 2, 2025)

Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State will implement major changes that limit eligibility for nonimmigrant visa interview waivers.

Under the State Department’s new revised policy, most applicants—including children under 14 and adults over 79—will be required to attend an in-person interview with a U.S. consular officer, with limited exceptions.

This new policy replaces the previous Interview Waiver Update issued on February 18, 2025, and will significantly impact individuals seeking to travel to the United States on a nonimmigrant visa including workers seeking to renew their visas.

Who Can Still Qualify for an Interview Waiver After September 2?

Although the new rules tighten overall interview requirements, certain applicants may still be eligible for an interview waiver, including:

Certain Diplomatic and Official Visa Holders

Applicants under the following visa classes are exempt from the interview requirement:

A-1, A-2 (representatives of foreign governments)
C-3 (excluding attendants or personal staff)
G-1 through G-4 (representatives of international organizations)
NATO-1 through NATO-6
TECRO E-1 (Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office officials)

Diplomatic or Official-Type Visa Applicants

Those applying for visas that support diplomatic or governmental missions may still be eligible for interview waivers.

Applicants Renewing Certain B Visas or Border Crossing Cards

Applicants may qualify for an interview waiver if they meet all the following conditions:

Renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa, or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals)
Renewal is within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration
Were at least 18 years old when the previous visa was issued
Applying from their country of nationality or residence
Have never been refused a visa (unless the refusal was later overcome or waived) and
Have no apparent or potential ineligibility for a U.S. visa

All other applicants must attend an in-person interview at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy overseas starting September 2nd.

What to Know

Case-by-case discretion: Even if you appear eligible for an interview waiver, a consular officer can still require you to attend an interview at their discretion.

How to Prepare for the Upcoming Changes

Begin your visa application early: If your visa is expiring soon and you qualify for an interview waiver, consider renewing as soon as possible before the new rules take effect on September 2^nd
Stay up to date: Requirements can vary by embassy or consulate, do your research to understand your local consulate’s requirements.
Seek professional guidance: If you need help navigating the process or expediting your application, consult an immigration attorney to assess your options and prepare your materials.

Looking Ahead

These updated policies, reintroducing in-person interviews for most applicants, are likely to increase processing times and cause delays. Frequent travelers and business professionals should plan accordingly and allow extra time for appointments and approvals.

If you have previously relied on waived interviews to renew your visa, make sure your application timing and documentation fully comply with the new policies.

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