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The United States has introduced major changes to its visa processing system, impacting international students, foreign professionals, and other nonimmigrant visa applicants.
As of September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has implemented new rules requiring most visa applicants to attend in-person interviews and to apply only from their country of residence or nationality.
These changes are part of a broader move to tighten immigration procedures and enhance the security of the visa process.
Key Changes to US Visa Application Rules
Interview Waiver (Dropbox) Policy Restricted
The popular "Dropbox" or Interview Waiver Program, which allowed eligible applicants to renew or apply for visas without an in-person interview, has been significantly scaled back.
Effective from September 2, 2025, most foreign nationals including:
F-1 student visa applicants
H-1B temporary work visa holders
And other nonimmigrant visa categories
will no longer qualify for interview waivers.
This means that most applicants will now need to attend a physical interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Mandatory Application from Country of Residence or Nationality
In another major change, visa applicants are now required to apply from either:
Their country of residence, or
Their country of nationality
This update was confirmed in a recent statement by the U.S. Embassy in India, and the guidance applies to all U.S. nonimmigrant visa categories, including F-1, H-1B, B1/B2 (visitor), and others. Applications made in countries outside of residence or nationality may be delayed, and applicants could face greater scrutiny or lower approval chances.
What Does This Mean for International Students and Skilled Workers?
If you're planning to study or work in the U.S., here’s how these new rules may affect you:
F-1 Student Visa Applicants:
Must now attend a visa interview in person.
Must apply from their home country or the country where they currently live.
Those studying abroad and hoping to apply from a third country may face longer processing times or rejections.
H-1B and Other Work Visa Applicants:
Cannot renew or apply via Dropbox.
Must attend in-person interviews and apply from their home country or country of legal residence.
Could face significant wait times, especially in high-demand locations.
Will Existing Visa Appointments Be Cancelled?
According to the Department of State:
Existing appointments will generally remain valid.
However, if you’ve booked an appointment in a third country (where you're not a citizen or resident), you may be advised to rebook.
Any Exceptions?
Yes, but they’re limited.
If you are from a country where routine U.S. nonimmigrant visa services are not available, you may be allowed to apply at a designated U.S. embassy or consulate elsewhere.
In such cases, be prepared for:
Longer wait times
More detailed questioning
A higher burden of proof to establish visa eligibility
Final Advice for Applicants
If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. visa soon, here are a few steps to take:
Apply from your country of residence or nationality
Book your appointment early – wait times may increase
Prepare thoroughly for your in-person interview
Avoid scheduling interviews in countries where you are neither a citizen nor a resident
Tip: Always check the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate website in your country for the latest updates and interview availability.
Who Is Affected?
These new rules apply to:
F-1 international students
H-1B temporary skilled workers
J-1 exchange visitors
B1/B2 business and tourist visitors
L-1, O-1, and other employment-based visa applicants
Whether you're a Nigerian tech professional, an Indian student, or a Kenyan doctor, these changes may affect your plans to study, work, or visit the United States.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. visa system is shifting toward stricter enforcement and more in-person processing. While these rules aim to improve security, they also make it more challenging and time-consuming for genuine travelers, students, and workers. Stay informed, prepare early, and always apply from the right location.
For more updates on U.S. immigration, visas, and international travel news, follow Immigrate With Ammy, for accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand immigration updates.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules can change quickly. Always refer to the U.S. State Department or a licensed immigration attorney for official guidance.