On December 21, 2023, the Department of State announced that, beginning January 01, 2024, consular officers have the authority and discretion to waive the in-person interview for:

• First-time H-2 visa applicants (temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers); and
• Other nonimmigrant visa applicants applying for any nonimmigrant visa classification who:
• Were previously issued a nonimmigrant visa in any classification, unless the only prior-issued visa was a B visa; and
• Are applying within 48 months of their most recent nonimmigrant visa's expiration date.

DOS stated that implementation of this authority will be reviewed annually and is in place until further notice. Applicants renewing a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification within 48 months of the prior visa's expiration date continue to be eligible for an interview waiver until further notice.

To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must also meet certain criteria, including that they:

·      apply in their country of nationality or residence.

·      have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).

·      have no apparent or potential ineligibility.

Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions.

We regularly update our blog section to acquaint the community with the latest changes in Immigration policies. Please note the information in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be nor should it be construed as legal advice. We can promptly and efficiently represent clients located anywhere in the US or abroad on US Immigration Policies. If you seek further clarification, don't hesitate to contact SanSha Law Office at [email protected] or call us at 469-777-6161.