Most Visa Renewals Will Require Interviews Starting September 2: Updates to Interview Waiver Program

Starting September 2, 2025, most nonimmigrant visa renewals will require an in-person interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy, according to the Department of State’s announcement about the changes. 

Fewer waivers will be granted as part of the Interview Waiver Program (IWP), sometimes referred to as the “dropbox” program.

One of the biggest shifts is that interviews will be required regardless of age. Previously, applicants under 14 years old or over 79 years old were eligible for waivers, but that provision is going away.

The new in-person interview requirements apply to most nonimmigrant visa categories, including H-1B, H-4, E-1, E-2, L-1, L-2, F-1, F-2, J-1, O-1, and M-1 visas.

Who will still be eligible for a visa Interview Waiver after September 2?

Although fewer people will be eligible for waivers for interviews, the program isn’t going away. There are a couple of categories of visas that still qualify for interview waivers.

Here are the categories that will still be eligible for the waivers after September 2nd, according to the Department of State.

Foreign ambassadors, diplomats, and officials

A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants, servants, or personal employees of accredited officials), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1.

Certain business or tourist travelers

Applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration, and who were at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa’s issuance.

To be eligible for a dropbox renewal under this category, applicants need to apply in their country of nationality and have no apparent ineligibility, including being denied a visa in the past.

The Department of State also notes that consular officers could require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis for any reason.

What is the Interview Waiver Program?

The Interview Waiver Program began in 2011 to streamline the visa process and reduce wait times and backlogs for renewals. It was made permanent in 2014 and expanded in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When consular officers had fewer interviews to conduct, they could focus on cases that required additional security screening.

Visa applicants with clean immigration histories benefit from the program because it saves them time and travel costs when interview requirements are waived. 

September 2025 changes will override those made in February 2025

That was already a big change from previous guidance, which said applicants could be eligible for an interview waiver if they were renewing a visa in the same category within 48 months of their visa’s expiration.

The latest shift in guidelines for interview waivers is the second major change so far this year. Eligibility was already tightened in February, when the State Department said applicants could qualify for a waiver if they were renewing a visa in the same category as a visa that had expired within the past 12 months.

What does this mean for anyone renewing a nonimmigrant visa?

If you have a nonimmigrant visa that doesn’t qualify for an interview waiver (for example, H-1, O-1, L-1, J-1, etc.), you’ll need to plan your renewal carefully. You will probably be required to schedule an in-person interview.

There will be a bigger demand for interview slots, so it will be important to schedule yours as soon as possible when you’re eligible for a renewal. You will also have to book travel. 

Remember, you’ll need to include any family members due for visa renewals, too, even children and the elderly. That will add to travel costs.

Because consular staff will need to conduct more interviews and additional screenings — like reviewing social media for some visa categories — there could be new delays in processing renewals.

Here’s how you can prepare for an in-person interview in 2025

To prepare for your next visa renewal, you’ll want to be sure you’re familiar with the new process before your interview. Here is how you can get ready for the new interview requirement.

1. Gather key documents

These include DS-160 confirmation, I-797 approval notice, valid passport, recent photos, employer letter, and any prior visa stamps. 

2. Book your appointment as early as possible

There could be longer wait times now that more people are being routed into interviews. CheckVisaSlots.com is a helpful website that can help you find appointment availability faster.

3. Prepare for thorough questioning

Officers may ask about your job, employer, travel history, and future U.S. plans. Expect more questions than when you could just drop off documents.

4. Check consulate instructions 

Monitor your specific consulate or embassy site for country-by-country updates. Each post can have unique rules for document submission, scheduling, and biometrics. For example, some guidelines won’t allow you to book a biometric appointment and an interview on the same day or on consecutive days. 

5. Plan travel logistics

Some applicants may need to travel long distances to the embassy/consulate. Factor in time off work and travel costs for yourself and any family members who also need to travel for interviews. Be sure your plans include extra time or a hotel reservation if you need to book biometric appointments and interview appointments on different dates.

6. Prepare supporting evidence

For employment-based visas (like H-1B, O-1, or L-1), bring copies of petitions, updated employer letters, and proof of ongoing employment. For student or exchange visas, bring financial and enrollment records.

7. Stay flexible

Consular officers can still request additional documents or call you back for further review, which can add to processing time.

Should you talk to a lawyer about your visa renewal?

It’s always a good idea to consult an experienced immigration attorney, particularly when changes are being made to the guidelines.

An attorney can help you prepare for a visa interview and ensure your renewal documents are complete, which can avoid mistakes that could cause a delay in processing your application.

If you need support or have questions about the visa Interview Waiver Program changes, request a consultation today with Manifest Law.