Archive · 2 Sep 2025
US Mandates Visa Interviews, Ending Dropbox Facility
The U.S. is changing how it handles visa applications.
Starting September 2, 2025, most people who want to visit the US will need to go to an in-person interview.
This means no more skipping the interview for many people.
If you're under 14 or over 79, you usually don't need to interview, but now you may, unless you qualify for a waiver.
The Visa Interview Waiver, known as Dropbox, will be discontinued for many applicants.
This change could cause delays and longer wait times for travelers.
Also, visa fees are going up.
Most non-immigrant visa applicants will need in-person interviews.
The changes begin on September 2, 2025.
Dropbox facility is being discontinued for most visa applicants.
H-1B and F-1 visa holders are affected.
Non-petition-based visa fees will increase by over 148%.
- Who
- Most non-immigrant visa applicants, including students and tourists
- What
- Mandatory in-person interviews and the discontinuation of Dropbox
- When
- Beginning September 2, 2025
- Where
- Not explicitly stated
- Why
- Not explicitly stated in articles
- Effective Date
- September 2, 2025
- Interview Requirement
- Most applicants to attend in-person interviews
- Dropbox Change
- Discontinued as of September 2, 2025
- Affected Visa Types
- H-1B and F-1 visas
- Interview Waivers
- Limited, certain B1/B2 renewals eligible
- Fee Increase
- Non-petition-based visas increase by over 148%
Sources
US introduces new visa immigration fee for foreign travelers and immigrants
US visa rules tighten today: Dropbox facility ends, in person interviews mandatory for all applicants
Planning a US trip? Trump just made it pricier — Starting THIS date Indians will have to pay ₹22,000 'integrity fee' for a Visa
