Overview

• The July 25 policy update replaces February guidelines and takes effect September 2, 2025.
• Applicants under 14 or over 79 will no longer qualify for automatic interview waivers and must schedule in-person consular interviews.
• Waivers for B-1/B-2 visas and Border Crossing Cards are now limited to renewals filed within 12 months of expiration by applicants aged 18 or older.
• Diplomatic and official visa holders in A-1, A-2, C-3 (excluding personal assistants), G-1 to G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6 and TECRO E-1 categories remain eligible for waivers.
• Consular officers can require interviews from any applicant, even those meeting waiver criteria, based on case-by-case security assessments.