Effective September 2, 2025, the Department of State will update the categories of applicants eligible for a nonimmigrant visa interview waiver. All nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those under the age of 14 and over the age of 79, will generally be required to appear in person for an interview with a consular officer.

Exceptions :

1- Applicants classifiable under the visa symbols A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants, servants, or personal employees of accredited officials), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1;

2- Applicants for diplomatic- or official-type visas; and

3- Applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration, and who were at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa’s issuance.

To be eligible for an interview waiver based on the third bullet point above (applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil for Mexican nationals), applicants must also meet certain criteria, including that they :

• 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.

Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis for any reason. Applicants should check embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, and to learn more about the embassy or consulate’s operating status and services.

This supersedes the Interview Waiver Update of February 18, 2025.

HL/ HaitiLibre