US modifies eligibilty requirement for non-immigrant visa interview waivers, including student visas

The US Department of State has adjusted the interview waiver system for non-immigrant visa applications, impacting eligibility for student visa categories.

Effective from January 1, 2024, the changes, confirmed in an update at the end of December, reflect a decision by the Secretary of State, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, identifying specific interview waiver categories as "in the national interest." These waivers will stay till further notice, subject to annual reviews.

Under the updated guidelines, non-immigrant visa applicants, including those seeking student visas, may qualify for a visa interview waiver if they were previously issued a non-immigrant visa (excluding a B visa) and are applying within 48 months of the last visa's expiration.


To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must also meet certain criteria, including that they:

• apply in their country of nationality or residence.
• have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).
• have no apparent or potential ineligibility.

In late 2021, the US Department of State initially granted consular officers the authority to waive interviews for certain non-immigrant visa applicants who had previously been issued a visa. This provision was extended for first-time applicants from visa-waiver program countries until the end of 2022, with a subsequent renewal until the end of 2023.

However, under the recent changes, interview waivers for first-time applicants from US visa-waiver countries are no longer available.

"Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions. We encourage applicants to check embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, and to learn more about the embassy’s operating status and services," the State Department said in a statement.