The U.S. Department of State has extended the interview waiver program for certain nonimmigrant visas until December 31, 2023.
This means that certain applicants for H-2, F, M, J, H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visas may be eligible to have their visa interviews waived.
Who is eligible for an interview waiver?
- First-time and renewing H-2 visa applicants who meet certain conditions
- F, M, and academic J visa applicants who meet certain conditions
- Individual petition-based H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visa applicants who meet certain conditions
- Applicants renewing a visa in the same classification within 48 months of the prior visa’s expiration
What are the conditions for eligibility?
- Applicants must be applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence.
- Applicants must not have been refused a visa unless such refusal was overcome or waived.
- Applicants must not have any apparent ineligibility or potential ineligibility.
- For first-time F, M, and academic J, or individual petition-based H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q applicants, they must be citizens or nationals of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
How do I apply for an interview waiver?
Applicants should check the embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about the interview waiver program and how to apply.
Please note that consular officers may still require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis.
We encourage applicants to submit their applications as early as possible to ensure that they have enough time to obtain their visas before they travel to the United States.