Major US Visa Interview Policy Shift Coming September 2, 2025
Get ready for a significant change in US visa application procedures. The US Department of State has announced a substantial shift in its policy regarding visa interviews for nonimmigrant visas, effective September 2, 2025.
Key Policy Changes
From the specified date, most nonimmigrant visa applications will require a personal interview. This new requirement will apply to a broad range of applicants, including:
- Children under 14 years old
- Individuals aged 79 and older
The only exceptions will be for specific diplomatic visas or certain renewals of tourist visas (B1/B2) made within a 12-month window, provided there have been no previous visa refusals and no adverse factors present in the application.
Impact on F-1 Student Visas
For those aspiring to study in the US, the F-1 student visa is directly affected. F-1 visas are not included in the list of exceptions for interview waivers. This means that starting September 2, 2025, nearly all new F-1 visa applications will mandate an in-person interview. Extremely rare exceptions might exist but are unlikely to apply to typical high school students.
What About F-1 Visa Renewals?
Previously, F-1 visa renewals benefited from a temporary interview waiver policy, largely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. This eased process, which was in effect from 2021 to 2025, has now officially concluded. Applicants seeking to renew their F-1 visas should prepare for the updated interview requirements.
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