US Updates Visa Interview Rules: Changes Impacting Students Announced

The US Department of State has confirmed changes to the interview waiver system for non-immigrant visa applications, reducing the eligibility for student visa streams.

US new visa interview rules impact student visa holders: Everything you need to know

1. The interview waiver system for non-immigrant visa applications, affecting eligibility for student visa categories, has been adjusted by the US Department of State.

2. Effective from January 1, 2024, these changes were confirmed in a December update, reflecting a decision made by the Secretary of State in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security. Specific interview waiver categories are now identified as "in the national interest," and these waivers will remain in effect until further notice, subject to annual reviews.

3. Under the updated guidelines, non-immigrant visa applicants, including those applying for student visas, may be eligible for a visa interview waiver if they were previously issued a non-immigrant visa (excluding a B visa) and are applying within 48 months of the last visa's expiration.

4. Eligibility criteria for interview waivers include applying in their country of nationality or residence, never having been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived), and having no apparent or potential ineligibility.

5. In late 2021, the US Department of State initially granted consular officers the authority to waive interviews for certain non-immigrant visa applicants who had previously been issued a visa.

6. This provision was extended for first-time applicants from visa-waiver program countries until the end of 2022, with a subsequent renewal until the end of 2023.

7. However, under the recent changes, interview waivers for first-time applicants from US visa-waiver countries are no longer available.

8. The State Department emphasized that consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or due to local conditions. Applicants are encouraged to check embassy and consulate websites for detailed information about visa application requirements, procedures, and the embassy's operating status and services.