Published: November 18, 2025
Many consulates have historically allowed Third Country National (TCN) processing, where applicants secure visas in a country other than their country of residence. Instead of facing significant delays in their home country, TCN applicants can schedule visa appointments at consular posts that are more convenient and have shorter wait times.
However, an update from the Department of State (DOS) restricts the processing of TCN visa applications. Suppose you’re considering processing a US visa application outside your home country. Planning with the assistance of an immigration lawyer is essential to minimize potential visa processing issues.
In this post, we will examine the updated policy on nonimmigrant visa applications in a third country and its implications for you or your loved ones.
New Guidance for Processing Your US Nonimmigrant Visa Outside Your Country of Residence
TCN applications enable individuals from high-demand countries to secure US visas in other countries, offering shorter wait times and reduced appointment delays. However, the new guidance limits the option for applying for a nonimmigrant visa outside their home country.
Effective September 6, 2025, nonimmigrant visa applicants are required to arrange their visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence. When you’re filing based on your residence, you must provide evidence to demonstrate residence in the country where you’re applying.
How the New Nonimmigrant Visa Processing Guidance Impacts Your US Visa Applications
Although it’s not an outright restriction on TCN applications, the new nonimmigrant visa processing may result in longer waiting times for a visa appointment, whether it’s an initial visa application or a renewal.
The backlogs may worsen, particularly if you’re from high-volume countries like China, India, Brazil, and Mexico. With a more intensive interview and background check, you may also find it more challenging to qualify for a visa if you’re applying at a US consulate outside your home country.
Although future applications will be subject to stricter policies, existing appointments for pending immigrant visas will remain valid and generally proceed as scheduled. In case you decide to cancel your existing appointment, the DOS won’t issue any refund or allow any transfer of fees paid for the application.
Hence, if you have a pending nonimmigrant visa appointment, you must understand your designated post for contingency planning. Suppose you’re seeking an interview outside your assigned consular district, you must be ready to provide additional evidence to verify your place of residence.
Given the tighter scheduling and non-refundable fees, confirming your eligibility and the correct consulate location before making appointments is equally vital.
Boost Your Approval Chances With a Los Angeles Immigration Lawyer
Proactive planning and diligence in complying with the immigration rules are crucial to boost your approval chances. With reduced flexibility and limited exceptions in selecting more convenient consulates, working with a qualified Los Angeles immigration lawyer can provide
you with a better fighting chance.
Our experienced team at ALG Lawyers is ready to assist you in assessing your options. Although there are restrictions, we can strategize the best course of action for the new residence requirements and your specific circumstances. Schedule an initial meeting with our firm now to discuss your immigration concerns in detail.
FAQs on Securing a US Nonimmigrant Visa Outside Your Country of Residence
Is there an increased risk of denial when securing a US visa outside your home country?
Yes, there’s an increased risk of denial when securing a US visa from a country other than your country of residence. This is particularly true with the new instructions on nonimmigrant visa applications. Ensure that you take into account the new residence requirements and prepare strong documentation when considering a TCN visa processing.
What are your options if the US government doesn’t offer nonimmigrant visa appointments in your home country?
The DOS has provided specific locations for nonimmigrant visa processing for countries with suspended or paused routine visa operations. However, if you live somewhere else, you may still be eligible to apply at the US embassy or consulate in the country where you currently reside.
Does the new policy on processing nonimmigrant visas allow for any exceptions?
Although exceptions are available under the new policy, they are limited and highly case-specific. The DOS had not yet specified the criteria for making exceptions for humanitarian or medical reasons. However, the new guidance on processing nonimmigrant visas does not currently apply to those applying for A, G, C-2, C-3, or NATO visas. Exceptions also exist for those seeking diplomatic or official-type visas or travel visas under the UN Headquarters Agreement.
(Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers. Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from a qualified attorney based on their individual circumstances. Thank you.)