The U.S. Department of State has issued updated guidance for nonimmigrant visa applicants worldwide. Effective immediately, applicants must schedule visa interviews in their country of nationality or legal residence, with a few exceptions. This change aims to make interview locations consistent, reduce processing confusion, and improve the efficiency of visa processing.
New Guidelines for NIV Applicants
Under the new policy, nonimmigrant visa applicants must schedule interview appointments at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or lawful residence. The guidance applies across most nonimmigrant visa categories and takes effect immediately.
For nationals of countries where the U.S. government does not conduct routine non-immigrant visa operations, applications must be submitted at designated embassies or consulates identified by the Department of State. Officials say the update is designed to promote consistency in adjudication and ensure that applications are reviewed in locations best equipped to verify residency and background information.
Designated Locations for Processing
The updated guidance includes a list of designated processing locations for applicants from countries without standard NIV services. For example, Afghan nationals are directed to apply in Islamabad, Cuban nationals in Georgetown, Iranian nationals in Dubai, Libyan nationals in Tunis, and Syrian nationals in Amman. Applicants from Russia may apply in Astana or Warsaw, while Venezuelan applicants are directed to Bogota.
The Department of State states that these locations are mandatory unless an approved exception applies. Applicants should check for the latest requirements and information on appointment availability, required documents, and local conditions on individual Embassy or Consulate websites. Waiting times and requirements can vary widely by location.
Important Considerations for Applicants
Applicants should be ready to provide proof of residence in case an application for visa approval is based on residence rather than nationality. Interviewing in a country other than the country of residence may delay processing, require intensive screening, or result in ineligibility to obtain a visa. Fees for visa applications submitted to inappropriate offices are non-refundable and cannot be transferred.
Appointments for non-immigrant visas will typically remain in effect under this new regulation. This policy does not apply to diplomatic or official visa categories, including A, G, NATO, C-2, and C-3 visas, or travel governed by the United Nations Headquarters Agreement. There may be limited exceptions for humanitarian or medical emergencies, or for foreign policy reasons.
Looking Ahead
Many nonimmigrant visa applicants are expected to be affected by the revised guidelines, particularly those who previously sought appointments outside their home country to avoid longer wait times. To prevent delays or unforeseen problems, applicants are urged to review the designated locations and make advance plans thoroughly.
ImmigrationQuestion.com will continue monitoring developments related to U.S. visa processing policies and provide updates as additional guidance is released.
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