Most Visa Renewals Now Require Interviews: What Applicants Should Know

As of September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has ended broad eligibility for the Interview Waiver Program—commonly known as the “dropbox” option. Nearly all nonimmigrant visa renewals now require in-person interviews at U.S. consulates or embassies worldwide.

At SG Legal Group, I advise clients that this policy marks the most significant procedural change in years for nonimmigrant visa holders. Those who previously renewed visas without interviews must now plan for travel, scheduling, and additional documentation to avoid delays.

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The Interview Waiver Program Has Been Drastically Limited

For over a decade, the Interview Waiver Program allowed qualified applicants to renew visas without appearing in person. That convenience ended on September 2, 2025, when the Department of State implemented new restrictions.

Under the current rule:

• Most visa renewals require in-person interviews, regardless of age.

• H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, E-1, E-2, F-1, F-2, J-1, O-1, and M-1 applicants are among those now required to appear.

• Consular officers retain discretion to require interviews for any case, even if technically eligible for a waiver.

This update replaces the temporary, pandemic-era flexibility that had expanded waivers for low-risk applicants.

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Who Still Qualifies for a Waiver

Only a narrow group of applicants remain eligible for interview waivers:

1. Diplomatic or official visas:

A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding attendants, servants, or personal employees), G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, and TECRO E-1.

2. Certain B-visa renewals:

Applicants renewing a full-validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visa (or Border Crossing Card for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of prior visa expiration—provided they were at least 18 at the time of the previous visa, apply in their country of nationality or residence, and have no prior refusals or ineligibility.

Even in these limited cases, consular posts may still require an interview at their discretion. Applicants should confirm the latest instructions on their embassy’s official website before applying.

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What Visa Holders Should Expect Now

Visa renewals have become more time-intensive and costly. Applicants should prepare for:

• Longer interview-slot wait times as demand increases.

• Additional travel expenses if in-person appearances are required abroad.

• Extended processing periods due to increased case volume and additional screening.

Dependents—regardless of age—must also appear for interviews in most cases. Missing or incomplete documents can result in further delays or denials.

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How to Prepare for a Smooth Interview

I advise applicants to take the following proactive steps:

1. Gather all key documents early: DS-160 confirmation, valid passport, prior visa, recent photos, I-797 (if applicable), and employer or school verification letters.

2. Schedule as soon as eligible: Interview wait times vary by location. Early booking reduces risk of travel disruption.

3. Follow consulate-specific rules: Some posts separate biometric and interview appointments; plan travel accordingly.

4. Be ready for in-depth questioning: Officers may ask about job duties, studies, travel history, or future plans.

5. Plan logistics carefully: Account for time off work, possible overnight stays, and dependents’ interviews.

6. Submit DS-160 correctly: As of May 5, 2025, the DS-160 barcode must match your appointment confirmation and be submitted at least two business days in advance.

7. Allow extra time for processing: Officers can request additional documents or a second appearance if needed.

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Why Legal Preparation Matters

Applicants accustomed to dropbox renewals often underestimate how thorough consular interviews can be. Small errors—such as inconsistent employment history or outdated documents—can trigger administrative processing or delays.

At SG Legal Group, I help clients review their visa history, address prior refusals, and assemble documentation that anticipates potential interview questions. Careful preparation now can prevent costly re-scheduling or missed return flights later.

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Key Takeaways

• The Interview Waiver Program has effectively ended for most applicants as of September 2, 2025.

• Nearly all nonimmigrant visa renewals now require interviews.

• Only diplomats and some B-visa renewals may still qualify for waivers.

• Plan renewals early, prepare documents carefully, and expect longer timelines.

If you need professional guidance for your visa renewal under the new rules, contact me at SG Legal Group. My team and I can help you prepare effectively for your consular interview.

Consultations are available in English, Russian, or Romanian.

Call 410-618-1288 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.

This article provides general information and is not legal advice.

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