On September 6, 2025, the US Department of State (DoS) has issued updated guidance for nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants, requiring interviews to be scheduled at a US embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of nationality or residence.
This policy is effective immediately and aims to streamline visa adjudication while ensuring applicants meet residency requirements.
Key Updates for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants
- Interview Location Requirement: Applicants must schedule their visa interviews in the country where they hold nationality or legal residence.
- Designated Processing Posts: Nationals of countries without routine NIV operations must apply at designated embassies or consulates: (Updated on October 10, 2025)
| NATIONAL OF | DESIGNATED LOCATION(S) |
| Afghanistan | Islamabad |
| Belarus | Vilnius, Warsaw |
| Burkina Faso | Lome |
| Chad | Yaoundé |
| Cuba | Georgetown |
| Haiti | Nassau |
| Iran | Dubai |
| Libya | Tunis |
| Niger | Lome |
| Russia | Astana, Warsaw |
| Somalia | Nairobi |
| South Sudan | Nairobi |
| Sudan | Cairo |
| Syria | Amman |
| Ukraine | Krakow, Warsaw |
| Venezuela | Bogota |
| Yemen | Riyadh |
| Zimbabwe | Johannesburg |
Additional Considerations
- Residency Proof: Applicants must demonstrate legal residence in the country where they apply.
- Non-Refundable Fees: Visa fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if the applicant is denied due to location-based eligibility.
- Appointment Wait Times: Interview wait times vary by location. Applicants applying outside their country of residence may face longer delays.
- Existing Appointments: Previously scheduled interviews will generally not be canceled.
- Exceptions: This policy does not apply to diplomatic, official, or UN-related visa categories. Humanitarian or medical emergencies may be considered for exceptions.
Applicants are encouraged to check the website of the relevant US embassy or consulate for local procedures, operating status, and appointment availability.
This update supersedes previous guidance on nonimmigrant visa interview scheduling and designated processing locations.
This update follows a similar policy change announced on August 28, 2025, requiring immigrant visa (IV) applicants to interview in their country of residence or nationality, effective November 1, 2025.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.