This week eligibility for nonimmigrant interview waivers at U.S. consulates abroad has changed. Visa applicants are now eligible for interview waivers only if they are renewing a visa in the same category and if prior visa expires within the last 12 months or is still valid, among other criteria. Those who do not meet the criteria will be required to attend an in-person interview to apply for their visa. It is not known how consulates will treat visa applications submitted under the interview waiver program that are currently pending. We have heard that those with scheduled interview waiver appointments are receiving notification to cancel that waiver appointment and reschedule an in-person appointment. Any planned travel that includes application for a nonimmigrant visa should be carefully considered as we expect wait times to increase.
