State Department Updates Interview Location Requirements for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Key Point 

• Effective immediately, nonimmigrant visa applicants must schedule interviews in their country of nationality or residence 

Interview Location Requirement 

On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced updated guidance regarding interview locations for nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants. Applicants must now schedule their visa interviews at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or current country of residence. According to the U.S. Department of State, this policy streamlines adjudication by directing applicants to schedule visa interviews in locations—either their country of nationality or current residence—where consular officers are more likely to be familiar with their background.

The U.S. government assigns designated embassies or consulates to nationals of countries where it does not conduct routine nonimmigrant visa (NIV) operations. For example, Iranian nationals must apply in Dubai, while Venezuelans are directed to Bogota. A full list of designated locations is available in the official announcement. 

Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Policy 

Applicants should be aware of the following: 

• Residence Proof: If applying based on residence, applicants must demonstrate legal residence in that country. 
• Non-Refundable Fees: Visa fees are non-transferable and non-refundable, even if the applicant is found ineligible due to applying outside their designated location. 
• Appointment Wait Times: Interviews outside one’s country of nationality or residence may involve significantly longer wait times. 
• Exceptions: The policy does not apply to diplomatic, official or UN-related visa categories. Humanitarian or emergency exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis. 

Existing Appointments 

Existing appointments will generally remain valid, but applicants are encouraged to verify procedures with their local embassy or consulate. This update supersedes previous guidance on NIV interview locations. 

Related Update

This policy change follows a similar announcement made by the U.S. Department of State regarding interview location requirements for immigrant visa applicants, published on August 28, 2025. That update, effective November 1, 2025, requires immigrant visa applicants to attend interviews in their country of residence or, if requested, in their country of nationality.

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