Effective September 2, 2025, DOS will require all non-immigrant visa applicants (including E, F, H, J, K, L, M, O, P, and R visa applicants) to appear for in-person interviews with consular officers. In-person interviews will be required for both initial and renewal applications.

Effective September 2, 2025, DOS will require all non-immigrant visa applicants (including E, F, H, J, K, L, M, O, P, and R visa applicants) to appear for in-person interviews with consular officers. In-person interviews will be required for both initial and renewal applications.

Employers and employees should consider the additional time required for interview scheduling and completion based on this update.

DOS will waive the in-person interview requirement for very limited visa types, including certain B visa applicants and some diplomatic, official, and NATO visa applicants.