U.S. Reinstates In‑Person Visa Interviews for Applicants Under 14 and Over 79

Overview

• As of Oct. 1, the interview requirement applies worldwide to all nationalities that need a U.S. nonimmigrant visa.
• Exemptions remain for specific cases such as eligible B‑1/B‑2 renewals, certain diplomatic and official categories, and some H‑2A renewals.
• Consular posts retain discretion to require an interview even when an applicant meets an exemption.
• The standard application fee stays at $185, while a legislatively authorized $250 Visa Integrity Fee has not been implemented and faces industry opposition.
• USCIS policy updates in effect allow refusals based on promotion of so‑called antiamerican ideologies or public social‑media statements that conflict with U.S. foreign policy.