US Introduces New Rule Requiring Visa Applicants to Attend Interviews in Their Country of Residence

 

The United States Department of State has announced a new policy affecting the non-immigrant visa application process, requiring applicants to attend visa interviews in their country of nationality or residence.

The new measure comes shortly after the US government introduced additional social media-related requirements for visa applicants as part of efforts to strengthen its screening procedures.

Under the updated policy, individuals seeking non-immigrant visas must schedule their interviews at a US Embassy or Consulate located in the country where they are citizens or legal residents. The Department of State said the change took effect on September 6, 2025.

US authorities stated that the policy is intended to improve the efficiency of visa adjudications while helping diplomatic missions manage application backlogs and address security concerns.

The latest development is expected to impact visa applicants worldwide, who will now be required to complete the interview stage of their application process in their country of nationality or residence.