URGENT UPDATE: US Visa Interview Waiver Policy Changes from September 2, 2025

The U.S. Department of State has officially announced an update to the list of eligible non-immigrant visa applicants for interview waivers. This significant change, effective September 2, 2025, will directly impact thousands of Vietnamese students and workers planning to renew their U.S. visas.

This is a notable development in U.S. visa policy, especially given that the interview waiver program has greatly assisted numerous applicants in recent years. VNIS Education is providing detailed information to help you prepare effectively.

1. What is the U.S. Visa Interview Waiver program, and how does the new policy change it?

Previously, the U.S. Department of State’s interview waiver program allowed certain eligible individuals to submit their applications by mail to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate for processing without an in-person interview. Common conditions included having a U.S. visa expiring soon or having expired within 12 months.

However, starting September 2, 2025, this policy will undergo a major change. According to the official announcement, most non-immigrant visa applicants, including children under 14 and adults over 79, will generally be required to attend an in-person interview with a consular officer.

This means that:

• Students (F, M, J visas): Will be required to have an in-person interview when renewing their U.S. visas.
• Short-term workers (H, L, O, P, R visas): These temporary work visa categories will also require an interview.
• B-1/B-2 (tourism/business) visa renewal applicants: If the visa has expired for more than 12 months, the applicant will also need to be re-interviewed.
• Children under 14 and adults over 79: Previously often exempt, they will now also be required to attend an in-person interview.

2. Who can still be exempt from interviews when renewing a visa?

While the new policy is stricter, a few specific cases will retain the interview waiver privilege, including:

• Diplomatic/Official visa categories: Applicants for A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding certain personal attendants/servants), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6, or TECRO E-1 visas.
• B-1/B-2 (tourism/business) visa renewals or Border Crossing Cards (for Mexican citizens):
• • The previous visa must be valid or expired within 12 months from its expiration date.
  • The applicant must have been at least 18 years old at the time the previous visa was issued.
  • The application must be submitted in their country of residence or nationality.
  • They must never have been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).
  • They must not have apparent ineligibilities or potential ineligibilities.

Important Note: Consular officers may still require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis for any reason, even if the applicant falls into an otherwise eligible interview waiver category.

3. Why is the U.S. changing its visa renewal policy?

The announcement from the U.S. Department of State clarifies that the new policy aims to enhance security controls and revert to stricter vetting procedures, similar to those in place before the pandemic. The objective is to ensure the integrity and security of the visa system.

4. Important recommendations from VNIS Education for you!

With this new policy officially taking effect on September 2, 2025, the number of applicants requiring in-person interviews is expected to increase significantly, potentially leading to longer appointment wait times (which could range from 2 to 6 weeks, especially during peak seasons).

To avoid risks and ensure your study or work plans in the U.S. proceed smoothly, VNIS Education strongly recommends:

• Act early: If your U.S. visa is about to expire and you are eligible for an interview waiver under the old regulations, submit your renewal application as soon as possible, before September 2, 2025.
• Plan and schedule appointments in advance: If you are a student or worker with an expiring U.S. visa who will now be required to attend an interview under the new policy, proactively plan and schedule your interview appointment now to ensure you have sufficient time for your study or work schedule.
• Prepare your application thoroughly: Whether it’s an interview waiver or an in-person interview, thorough, accurate, and transparent application preparation is crucial for increasing your chances of success.

VNIS Education is always ready to provide the latest updates and offer comprehensive consultation and support to help you prepare effectively for your U.S. visa renewal process. Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions and professional assistance!