WASHINGTON: The US State Department has announced new rules that exempt some applicants from visa interviews. However, the eligibility period for most renewals has been reduced from 48 months to 12 months.
This sudden change has raised concerns for frequent travelers and professionals who previously relied on the long dropbox window.
The official update said, “The Department of State has updated the categories of applicants who may be eligible for exemption from the nonimmigrant visa interview. Consular officers have the authority and discretion to waive the personal interview for the following categories outlined in Immigration and Nationality Act section 222(h).”
Who will be given visa interview exemption?
According to a Business Today report, the exempted persons include individuals falling under visa classifications A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants or servants), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6 or TECRO E-1, as well as applicants for diplomatic or official visas and individuals seeking renewal of visas in the same categories which have expired within the last 12 months.
- A-1, A-2 and C-3 visas generally cover foreign government officials, such as heads of state, ministers and others transiting through the United States on official business.
- The G-1 visa is issued to permanent members of a diplomatic mission of a recognized government. For example, it is issued to a permanently posted representative to an international organization.
- The G-2 visa is granted to officials of recognized governments who are traveling temporarily to attend meetings of an international body.
- The G-3 visa applies to representatives of unrecognised or non-member governments.
- The G-4 visa is for individuals who are working or serving as officials in international organizations, including the United Nations.
Criteria to be eligible for interview exemption
The ministry further clarifies, “To be eligible for an interview exemption, applicants must meet certain criteria, including that they apply in their country of nationality or residence, have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal has been remitted or waived) and have no apparent or potential disqualifications.”
Dropbox eligibility period reduced
Meanwhile, the US Department of State has abruptly reduced the eligibility period for the Visa Interview Waiver (Dropbox) from 48 months to just 12 months, creating complications for thousands of Indian applicants. According to the National Law Review, “Applicants will now have to renew visas in the same nonimmigrant classification that expired within the last 12 months to qualify for Dropbox processing.”
In practice, this means that most travelers, especially those on H-1B or B1/B2 visas, will face in-person interviews, which can increase wait times and potentially delay travel. Although exceptions apply for diplomats and some officials, many regular applicants may still face a difficult visa renewal process going forward.
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