Due to COVID-19, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is waiving in-person interview requirements for certain visa applicants through December 31, 2020.
Through the end of the year, individuals who are applying for a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification are not required to appear in person for an interview. Additionally, the interview waiver now applies to nonimmigrant visas that expired in the past 24 months. Previously, only applicants whose nonimmigrant visas expired within the past 12 months were eligible for an interview waiver.
To reduce the risk of disease transmission, the visa waiver extension allows processing to continue for certain nonimmigrant visa applications while limiting the number of individuals who must appear in person. Individuals should visit the website of the closest US Embassy or Consulate for information on services currently offered, eligibility information, and instructions on how to apply for a visa without an interview.
