Applicants seeking U.S. non-immigrant visas (NIV) will now be required to schedule their interview appointments exclusively in their country of citizenship or legal residency, according to new guidelines from the U.S. State Department. This change, effective immediately, is aimed at streamlining the visa application process and enhancing security measures. The official announcement states, “Effective immediately, the Department of State has updated its instructions for all nonimmigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments.”
For applicants in countries where routine NIV services are not being conducted, they must apply at a designated embassy or consulate unless they reside elsewhere. This adjustment impacts many, particularly Indian nationals who previously used the option to secure faster B1 (business) or B2 (tourist) visa appointments in other nations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some travelers resorted to this workaround as wait times for appointments in India soared to nearly three years due to considerable backlogs.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has indicated that new measures were also introduced on September 2 to enhance security within its non-immigrant visa interview waiver program. This program encompasses several visa categories, including tourist (B-1/B-2), student (F and M), work (H-1B), and exchange (J) visas, as well as diplomatic visas under categories A and G.
Beginning in September 2025, applicants for the B1/B2 visas in India will face a shift back toward more in-person interviews. The updated guidelines stipulate that most non-immigrant visa applicants will be required to undergo compulsory consular interviews, particularly those under the age of 14 and over 79. Exceptions apply to specific categories, such as A-1, A-2, G-1 to G-4, and certain NATO classifications, among others.
For Indian applicants, this change emphasizes the importance of staying updated. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are the best resources for current information regarding application protocols, requirements, and processing statuses.
Additionally, earlier this month, the U.S. announced a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee, set to be implemented in 2026. This fee acts as a security deposit, indexed to inflation, which may be refunded if visa holders maintain compliance with certain conditions.
These developments are poised to reshape the visa landscape, presenting challenges but also ensuring a more secure and organized process for U.S. non-immigrant visa applicants. As the application climate continues to evolve, staying informed through official channels remains crucial for prospective travelers.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/us-tightens-non-immigrant-visa-rules-what-does-this-mean-for-indian-travellers-niv-abroad-immigration-h1b-b1-b2-work-11757297598873.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-08 09:21:00
