Archive · 1 Sep 2025
US Mandates In-Person Visa Interviews, Increases Fees
Starting September 2025, if you want a US visa, you will likely need to go to an interview in person.
This new rule means that instead of just sending in paperwork, most people applying for visas will have to meet with someone from the US government.
This includes people applying for H-1B and F-1 visas.
Previously, some people could skip the interview, but now, unless you have a diplomatic visa or are renewing a B1/B2, you will probably have to go in person.
Also, visa fees are going up a lot, which could make it even harder and more expensive for some people to travel to the US.
This new rule changes how the US handles visa applications and could mean longer wait times.
The US is reinstating in-person visa interviews for most non-immigrant visa applicants.
The new policy takes effect on September 2, 2025.
The change affects a wide range of applicants, including H-1B workers and F-1 students.
Visa fees for many visa types will increase by over 148%.
The change reverses a temporary waiver expansion for H-1B and F-1 renewals.
- Who
- US Department of State
- What
- Implementing mandatory in-person interviews for non-immigrant visa applicants and raising fees.
- When
- Starting September 2, 2025.
- Where
- US Embassies and Consulates
- Why
- The reason for the change is not explicitly stated in the articles.
- Policy Change
- Mandatory in-person visa interviews for most applicants
- Effective Date
- September 2, 2025
- Impacted Applicants
- Most non-immigrant visa applicants
- Exemptions
- Diplomatic visas; renewal of B1, B2 visas under specific conditions
- Visa Fee Increase
- Non-petition-based visas to rise over 148%
