In-Person Interviews Now Required for Most Visa Applicants: A Major Policy Change for 2025 In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Department of State has announced that, as of October 1, 2025, most nonimmigrant visa applicants will be required to attend an in-person interview. This marks a major change from the previous policy, which provided interview waivers for many applicants, including children and the elderly. This visa update is a critical piece of the immigration news for 2025, and it will have a broad impact on individuals seeking to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or temporary work. While there are still some exceptions for diplomatic personnel and certain visa renewals, the vast majority of applicants will now need to schedule and attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. This change is likely to lead to longer processing times and increased competition for interview appointments. What This Means for You:
Plan for an In-Person Interview: If you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa, you should now expect to attend an in-person interview, regardless of your age. Apply Early: Due to the increased demand for interview appointments, it is crucial to begin your visa application process as early as possible to avoid delays in your travel plans. Check Embassy and Consulate Websites: Procedures and wait times will vary by location. Be sure to check the website of the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where you will be applying for the most up-to-date information on these new policy changes.