US Updates Visa Interview Rules for 2025: Application Locations for Non-Immigrants

Navigating the visa application process can be daunting, especially with new regulations on the horizon. Starting September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State will enforce updated guidelines for nonimmigrant visa applicants. These changes aim to streamline the process and enhance security, impacting where you can apply.

The Core Change

Under the new rules, most applicants must schedule their visa interviews at U.S. embassies or consulates in their country of nationality or the country where they reside legally. This shift emphasizes the importance of local processing, tying applicants to their home embassies or places of legal residence.

Countries Without Routine Visa Services

For nationals from countries without regular U.S. visa operations, designated embassies in third countries will handle applications. Here’s a list of where these applicants must go:

• Afghanistan: Islamabad
• Belarus: Vilnius, Warsaw
• Chad: Yaoundé
• Cuba: Georgetown
• Haiti: Nassau
• Iran: Dubai
• Libya: Tunis
• Niger: Ouagadougou
• Russia: Astana, Warsaw
• Somalia: Nairobi
• South Sudan: Nairobi
• Sudan: Cairo
• Syria: Amman
• Ukraine: Krakow, Warsaw
• Venezuela: Bogotá
• Yemen: Riyadh
• Zimbabwe: Johannesburg

What Applicants Need to Know

• Proof of Residence: Applicants must provide evidence of legal residency in the country where they are applying. If you schedule an interview outside your nationality or residence, expect increased scrutiny.
• Non-Refundable Fees: Visa fees are determined by the application location. If you apply in the wrong place, you will forfeit your payment.
• Appointment Wait Times: Wait times for visa interviews can vary significantly by location. If applying outside your home country, prepare for potentially longer delays.
• Existing Appointments: If you have an interview scheduled under the previous guidelines, it will generally remain valid.

Exceptions

Certain applicants are exempt from these rules. This includes those seeking A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, diplomatic or official visas, and travel under the UN Headquarters Agreement. Additionally, there may be exceptions for urgent humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy situations.

What This Means for Travelers

For most applicants, the message is clear: apply in your country of nationality or residence. The most significant change will affect nationals from countries where the U.S. has halted regular visa services. For these individuals, the designated locations mentioned earlier will be their only options.

The State Department emphasizes the importance of checking the official website of the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply. Each location has unique procedures, wait times, and operating statuses.

Conclusion

These new guidelines aim to simplify the visa application process while ensuring security. Make sure to stay informed and plan to navigate the new requirements effectively.