New DOS Guidance for Visa Interview Waivers

On February 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued updated guidance regarding the categories of applicants that may be eligible for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview (“Drop Box”) for certain categories of applicants applying for visa stamps at U.S. Consulates outside the United States.  

The new guidance limits interview waiver applications to those applicants who previously held a visa in the same category that expired less than 12 months prior to the new application. Under prior guidance, individuals who had received a visa stamp that expired within the prior 48 months were potentially eligible for a waiver of the visa interview. In addition, the guidance removes the visa waiver option for individuals who have changed status to a new visa category, such as from F-1 to H-1B.

This change is effective immediately.  Individuals who scheduled interview waiver/drop box appointments prior to the change who are no longer eligible for the interview waiver will likely be required to schedule new, in-person interview appointments. There could be delays in obtaining such appointments due to overall demand for visa stamping appointments, which is likely to increase significantly due to this change in policy.

In addition to these new guidelines, prior guidelines concerning eligibility for interview waivers continue to remain in effect. To apply for an interview waiver appointment, applicants must:

·     Apply in their country of nationality or residence;

·     Have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived); and

·     Have no apparent or potential ineligibility.

Applicants under age 14 and over 80 may continue to be eligible for interview waivers and Consular officers continue to have the discretion to require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis.