Effective September 2, 2025, the United States will discontinue most exemptions from visa interviews.
In-person interviews will now be required for nearly all non-immigrant visa applicants, including students, workers, tourists, and even minors under 14 and seniors over 79.
Visa Categories Affected
- B-1/B-2: Business/Tourist
- F & M: Student
- H-1B: Work
- J: Exchange Visitor
Stricter Vetting and Delays Expected
- The rule reverses relaxed COVID-era policies and may lead to longer wait times, especially in countries like India, the Philippines, and the UAE. Renewal waivers will have stricter conditions.
New $250 Visa Integrity Fee in 2026
- A $250 visa integrity fee will be introduced in 2026 to ensure compliance. It may be refunded if the visa terms are fully followed, and it will be adjusted for inflation.
Global Impact
- The changes mark a return to stricter screening, affecting global travel, education, and work-related migration.
