Published: November 24, 2025
Are you currently applying for a nonimmigrant visa? New, stricter rules are in place for nonimmigrant visa processing, restricting the longstanding practice of attending visa interviews in third countries. To help you prepare, let’s explore the impact of limited interview locations on your nonimmigrant visa application and possible exceptions that apply to your current circumstances.
Mandatory Nonimmigrant Visa Interviews in Country of Residence
Effective September 6, 2025, interview appointments at the US embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence are mandatory for most nonimmigrant visa categories. This updated interview requirement limits the flexibility nonimmigrant visa applicants previously had, including those applying for the first time or seeking renewals.
Although the new policy doesn’t indicate outright restriction on submitting applications as a third-country national (TCN), qualifying for a visa outside your home country is only available under limited circumstances. It also requires adhering to strict residence or nationality requirements.
Possible Exceptions to the New Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Location Rule
Several possible exceptions exist for the new rule on nonimmigrant visa interview. In particular, individuals applying for A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas are not subject to the limited interview locations.
The update guidance also doesn’t apply to diplomatic-type or official-type visa applicants. Similarly, those seeking any travel visa covered by the UN Headquarters Agreement are eligible for the exception. In rare cases, nonimmigrant visa applicants may also qualify for an exception based on humanitarian or medical reasons.
Impact of the Limited Interview Locations and Tips to Prepare
Since applicants are required to attend their nonimmigrant visa interview appointment in their country of residence, they may face longer wait times and increased travel costs for designated posts. That’s most likely to affect those applying from countries without routine operations for nonimmigrant visas.
Although the updated policy doesn’t cancel existing appointments, you must confirm the assigned processing consulate for your country. Doing so is crucial to ensure compliance with the new interview location requirements. Likewise, applicants must note that fees are non-refundable when appointments are scheduled in the wrong consular jurisdiction.
Suppose you want to transfer your case from your country of nationality to your country of residence. You must substantiate your request and prove your residence with proper documentation.
With the new policy restricting interview locations, future nonimmigrant visa applicants must factor in processing times and appointment backlogs in immigration planning. You must prepare for possible travel expenses if your country doesn’t offer regular nonimmigrant visa operations. Lastly, ensure monitoring your corresponding embassy or consulate’s websites for updates.
Strategize With an Experienced Los Angeles Immigration Lawyer
The new rules can be challenging when you’re navigating the visa process on your own. With the heightened risk of delay and expense, it’s more crucial than ever to strategize your immigration application with an experienced Los Angeles immigration lawyer.
Call our team at ALG Lawyers for a tailored consultation. We can help you with various immigration concerns, from the timely submission of your visa application to comprehensive documentation and compliance with the updated interview requirements.
FAQs on What Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants Need to Know About Limited Interview Locations
Are you still allowed to attend a US visa interview in a third country?
Generally, existing interview appointments scheduled before the new policy will remain valid. Otherwise, you’re no longer allowed to attend a US visa interview in a third country unless your circumstances are eligible for exemptions.
Is it possible to transfer your case to another US consulate?
You can transfer your case to another US consulate if you’re in the process of applying for a nonimmigrant visa, . However, approval for the case transfer depends on case-by-case evaluation involving the National Visa Center or relevant consular offices.
Can a visa renewal applicant qualify for an interview waiver?
Recent policy changes narrow down the equalification for an interview waiver even for renewal applications. Effective September 2, 2025, an in-person interview with a consular officer is mandatory for all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those under 14 years of age and over 79. Only a few categories of applicants renewing their visas can waive the interview requirement.
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