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In-Person Visa Interview Requirements for F-1 and J-1 Students
Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State will require most nonimmigrant visa applicants to attend an in-person interview. This policy change specifically impacts F-1 and J-1 students by reversing previous interview waiver policies.
Who Is affected?
- Most F-1 and J-1 applicants, including those renewing a visa, will now be required to schedule and attend an in-person interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Previous exemptions for "dropbox" mail-in renewals and age-based exemptions (for those under 14 and over 79) are no longer in effect.
What you need to know:
This policy change is expected to significantly increase the demand for appointments, which could lead to longer wait times and processing delays. A very narrow set of applicants may still be eligible for an interview waiver, but consular officers retain full discretion to require an in-person interview for any reason.
What you need to do:
We strongly advise you to plan ahead and apply as early as possible.
- Check the website of the specific embassy or consulate where you plan to apply to understand their current wait times and requirements.
- Do not book non-refundable travel until your visa has been issued.
- For more information on this policy, you can refer to news and updates on the U.S. Department of State's visa news page.
This supersedes the prior Department of State Interview Waiver Update of February 18, 2025.
We understand these changes may cause concern. Please reach out to an ISS advisor if you have questions about how these new requirements affect you. Please note that ISS advisors can provide guidance on immigration regulations but cannot offer legal advice.