The Department of State (“DOS”) has announced that it has has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa. Under the new policy, which will be in effect until December 31, 2021, applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 48 months will be eligible for an interview waiver when applying for a new nonimmigrant visa in the same classification. Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa had expired within 24 months were eligible for an interview waiver. DOS has indicated this change will reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission as it will further limit the number of applicants who must appear at a consular section.
Applicants are encouraged to review the website of the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where they wish to apply for eligibility information and instructions on applying for a visa without an interview or to contact their D&S professional prior to booking travel.