On December 21, 2023, the Department of State (DOS) announced an updated visa interview waiver policy, which took effect on January 1, 2024. The policy both expands and limits the policy that was in place for 2023 and is in place until further notice.
Under the updated policy, visa interviews may now be waived for nonimmigrant visa applicants applying for any nonimmigrant visa classification who:
Were previously issued a nonimmigrant visa in any classification, unless the only prior issued visa was a B visa; and
Are applying within 48 months of their most recent nonimmigrant visa’s expiration date (including renewing a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification).
Note that the interview waiver policy now covers all nonimmigrant visas, vs. certain petition-based categories. However, note that for applicants whose only prior visa was a B-1, or for first time visa applicants who are citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, interview waiver is no longer available.
Additional applicant criteria include:
Application is in their country of nationality or residence (physical presence is required).
Applicant has never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).
Applicant has no apparent or potential ineligibility.
Even if an interview is waived, applicants must complete all other application steps such as completing a DS-160, paying the visa application fee, completing the steps on the relevant Embassy or Consulate’s visa appointment service website, and couriering the relevant documents as required. Applicants are also reminded that in-person interviews may still be required on a case-by-case basis or in light of local conditions.
© Jewell Stewart & Pratt PC 2024