US Embassy requires in-person interviews for most visa applicants starting Sept 2

The United States Embassy in the Philippines announced changes to its nonimmigrant visa interview waiver policy, requiring personal appearances for most visa applicants starting September 2.

Under the new rules, all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those under 14 and over 79 years old, will need an in-person interview with a consular officer.

Exceptions remain for certain categories such as diplomatic or official-type visas, specific A-1, A-2, NATO, TECRO, and some C-3 and G visa holders.

Applicants renewing B-1, B-2, or Border Crossing Card visas within 12 months of their expiration are still exempt if they were at least 18 years old when the previous visa was issued.

The embassy advised applicants to submit their applications by August 22 to ensure processing before the new policy takes effect.