If you are planning to travel to the United States in 2025 and require a non-immigrant visa, be aware of an important update. Starting 6 September 2025, the U.S. Department of State has introduced new rules requiring applicants to schedule their visa interviews in their country of nationality or lawful residence.
The Major Change
From September 2025 onward, applicants must book interviews at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country or the country where they have legal residence. This change restricts applicants from choosing alternative locations unless authorized exceptions apply.
Nations Without Routine Visa Services
For citizens of countries where the U.S. does not provide regular visa services, designated embassies in third countries will now serve as processing hubs. Travelers from these nations must apply at the assigned locations:
| Citizens of | Apply At |
|---|---|
| Belarus | Vilnius, Warsaw |
| Afghanistan | Islamabad |
| Cuba | Georgetown |
| Chad | Yaoundé |
| Iran | Dubai |
| Haiti | Nassau |
| Niger | Ouagadougou |
| Libya | Tunis |
| Somalia | Nairobi |
| Russia | Astana, Warsaw |
| Sudan | Cairo |
| South Sudan | Nairobi |
| Ukraine | Krakow, Warsaw |
| Syria | Amman |
| Yemen | Riyadh |
| Venezuela | Bogotá |
| Zimbabwe | Johannesburg |
What Applicants Should Know
- Proof of Residence: Applicants must prove legal residence in the country where they apply. Scheduling outside nationality or residence may trigger stricter scrutiny.
- Non-Refundable Fees: Visa fees are tied to the post of application. Submitting at the wrong location results in lost payments.
- Appointment Wait Times: Wait periods vary by location, and applying outside your home country may mean longer delays.
- Existing Appointments: Interviews already scheduled under prior rules remain valid.
- Exemptions: A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, and official or diplomatic permits are not affected. Humanitarian, medical, or urgent international policy cases may also receive exceptions.
What This Means for Travelers
Most applicants should now apply in their country of nationality or lawful residence. The greatest impact will be on citizens of countries without active U.S. visa operations, who must use the designated embassies listed above. Always check the official embassy or consulate website for the latest procedures, wait times, and requirements.
FAQ
When do the new U.S. visa interview rules take effect?
The rules begin on 6 September 2025.
Where must applicants now schedule their interviews?
Applicants must apply in their country of nationality or the country where they have lawful residence.
What happens if I apply at the wrong embassy?
Your application may be rejected, and visa fees will not be refunded.
Are there exemptions to this rule?
Yes. Exemptions apply to A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, diplomatic permits, and urgent humanitarian or medical cases.
What if my country does not have U.S. visa services?
You must apply at one of the designated embassies or consulates assigned to your nationality.