Interview waivers are a useful tool that allow U.S. Consulates to waive the normal requirement that each visa applicant attend an interview. In the aftermath of the COVID pandemic, interview waivers were expanded to allow for smoother visa processing given space constraints that made social distancing difficult at many Consulates.
Starting in July 2025, new guidance from the Department of State changed the landscape of interview waivers and greatly reduced the categories of applicants who are eligible for an interview waiver.
- As of October 1, 2025, interview waivers are largely limited to certain diplomatic/official visas, specific B1/B2 renewals, and H-2A renewals meeting strict conditions.
- Applicants must meet mandatory criteria: apply in their home country, have no prior unovercome refusal, and have no apparent ineligibility; approval remains discretionary.
- Formerly common waivers for children under 14 and adults over 79 are ended, and Executive Order 14161 now requires enhanced screening, including review of public social media.
The Current Status of Interview Waivers in 2026
As of October 1, 2025, only the following visa categories are eligible for an interview waiver:
Eligible Visa Categories
- Diplomatic or official-type visas: Including 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.
- Tourist/Business Visitor Visa Renewals (under certain circumstances): B1/B2 or Border Crossing Cards can be renewed through an interview waiver if the applicant is renewing within 12 months of the previous visa’s expiration. The prior visa must have been issued for full validity and applicant must have been at least 18 years old when it was issued.
- Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa Renewals (under certain circumstances): H-2A visa holders can renew through an interview waiver if they are renewing within 12 months of the previous visa’s expiration. The prior visa must have been issued for full validity and applicant must have been at least 18 years old when it was issued.
Mandatory Eligibility Criteria
In addition to the requirements above, the visa applicant must meet the following criteria to be eligible for an interview waiver:
- Visa applicant must apply in their country of nationality or residence (does not apply to diplomatic and certain official visa applicants).
- Visa applicant must never have been refused a visa, unless the refusal was overcome or waived.
- Visa applicant must have no apparent or possible ineligibility.
The decision to waive the interview is always discretionary, so even if an applicant meets the criteria above, the officer may still require them to attend the interview.
Important Takeaways for Visa Applicants
Many visa applicants took advantage of interview waivers to renew their visas during the time of expanded interview waivers, which started in August 2020. These applicants should be aware that they are no longer eligible for an interview waiver and will need to follow the normal visa application process and attend an in-person interview.
Changes for Families, Children, and Seniors
Additionally, the updated policy implemented in 2025 changed the long-standing practice of waiving interviews for applicants under 14 and older than 79 years old. This means that visa applicants who are applying with family members need to plan to bring their children to the interview, even if they are babies or toddlers.
Visa applicants who have not attended an interview for several years should make sure to prepare thoroughly for the interview. It is also recommended to discuss your case with an attorney before your interview.
Enhanced Screening and Executive Order 14161
Under the Executive Order 14161 of January 20, 2025, Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats, consular officers are conducting enhanced screening and there are new procedures for certain visa applicants.
For example, there is a requirement that applicants for H1-B, H-4, F, M and J visas must set their social media privacy settings to public to allow consular officers to review their social media and use this information in their assessment of visa eligibility.
Need Help Navigating Visa Changes?
If you were previously granted a visa through the interview waiver process and would like to discuss your upcoming visa renewal to understand the changes in the application process, schedule a consultation with our attorneys.
