EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: More individuals will have to appear at US Consulates for visa issuance. When staffing is lower than usual and there is additional screening of visa applicants, please plan for increased processing delays.
Individuals who are seeking to enter the U.S., or who have left and are returning to the U.S., must have a valid nonimmigrant visa in their passport that corresponds with the visa classification they are seeking. This means that someone who wishes to enter the U.S. as a student must first obtain a student visa at the U.S. consulate, or someone who wishes to enter the U.S. as an H-1B specialty occupation individual must first obtain an H-1B visa in their passport prior to entering the U.S. (Canadian citizens are exempt from having a visa in most cases. Individuals already in the U.S. do not have to leave to obtain a visa if they applied for a “change of status” while in the U.S. If they leave, however, they will need a visa to reenter.)
Historically, the Department of State (DOS) has made exceptions to the visa interview requirement. These have included individuals under the age of 14, individuals over the age of 79, and certain individuals who are renewing their visas.
As of September 2, 2025, DOS is modifying the visa interview requirement exceptions. Other than certain government and diplomatic visitors, and visitors who meet strict requirements (see below), all applicants will require an interview. This includes applicants under the age of 14 and those over the age of 79.
Visitors who may still qualify for a visa interview include those applicants who are renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration. These applicants must also have been at least 18 at the time of the prior visa, apply in their country of nationality or residence, have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived) and have no apparent or potential ineligibility.
The above information has been provided for educational purposes. Please consult your Clark Lau LLC attorney to see how the above changes apply to your circumstances.