US Visa: In a major policy shift, the US Department of State has announced that beginning September 2, 2025, the Visa Interview Waiver program—commonly known as Dropbox—will undergo significant changes, requiring most nonimmigrant visa applicants to appear in person for consular interviews.
US Tightens Visa Interview Waiver Rules
Until now, many applicants, including children under 14 and senior citizens above 79, were exempt from in-person interviews. However, under the revised rules, the majority of these applicants will now need to attend interviews unless they fall under specific exempted categories.
The interview waiver benefit will remain available only to a limited pool of applicants, particularly B1/B2 visa holders, provided they are applying for a renewal within 12 months of their previous visa’s expiration and were at least 18 years old when the earlier visa was issued. This exception also applies to Mexican citizens renewing their Border Crossing Cards/Foils under similar conditions.
Other categories that will continue to enjoy exemption include:
- Holders of A-1, A-2, or C-3 visas (excluding attendants, servants, or personal workers of accredited officials).
The biggest impact will be felt by H-1B professionals and F-1 students, as their interview waiver eligibility has now been withdrawn. Even if their earlier visas expired less than 12 months prior to the new application, they will no longer qualify for the waiver and must appear in person.
The US government emphasized that this measure aims to strengthen visa scrutiny and enhance national security, while also ensuring transparency in the visa issuance process.
For Indian applicants—especially business travelers, professionals, and students—the new rules mean longer processing times and the need to prepare for in-person interviews at US Embassies and Consulates.
