Department of State Expands Interview Waiver Eligibility
/The Department of State (DOS) announced on December 29, 2020 that it has extended its policy to expand interview waiver eligibility for individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification. This policy is in effect until March 31, 2021.
Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 12 months were eligible for an interview waiver. DOS has temporarily extended the expiration period to 24 months. This change will allow consular officers to continue processing certain nonimmigrant visa applications while limiting the number of applicants who must appear at a consular section, thereby reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission to other applicants and consular staff. Travelers are encouraged to review the website of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for detailed information on what services are currently available as well as eligibility information and instructions on applying for a visa without an interview.
