United States | State Department updates NIV interview waiver eligibility criteria

The State Department has updated the categories of applicants eligible for a nonimmigrant visa interview waiver, superseding the Dec. 21, 2023, interview waiver update.

Key Points:

• Consular offices have the authority and discretion to waive in-person interviews for applicants in the following nonimmigrant visa categories:
  • A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants, servants or personal employees of accredited officials), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6 or TECRO E-1
  • Diplomatic- or official-type visas
  • Applicants who previously held a visa in the same category that expired less than 12 months prior to the new application
• To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must also:
  • • Apply in their country of nationality or residence
    • Have never been refused a visa (unless refusal was overcome or waived)
    • Have no apparent or potential ineligibility
• Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or due to local conditions.

Additional Information: Applicants are encouraged to check embassy and consulate websites for detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, as well as the operating status and services of the embassy or consulate.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice Group.

Copyright © 2025 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.