We would like to inform you about important changes to the dropbox procedures at the consulates, as announced by the U.S. Department of State. These changes will affect the eligibility criteria for waivers of the nonimmigrant visa interview. The Department of State is cancelling the dropbox program for all H-1B and L-1 visa holders and their dependents starting September 2, 2025. The DOS is also going to be requiring children to appear for interviews at the consulate.
If you have an appointment for a dropbox renewal scheduled after September 1, 2025 we recommend that you reach out to the consulate to reschedule your appointment as soon as possible as we anticipate that demand for interview appointments will be high. We anticipate that this will increase visa appointment wait times going forward.
There are some very limited exceptions to this for diplomatic visas and for B visas as outlined below.
Key Changes:
General Requirement for In-Person Interviews:
- All nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those under the age of 14 and over the age of 79, will generally require an in-person interview with a consular officer.
Exceptions to the In-Person Interview Requirement:
- Applicants for diplomatic- or official-type visas.
- Applicants renewing a full validity B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa or a Border Crossing Card/Foil (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration, and who were at least 18 years old at the time of the prior visa’s issuance and meet the additional criteria below.
Criteria for Interview Waiver Based on B Visa Renewal:
- Applicants must apply in their country of nationality or residence.
- Applicants must have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).
- Applicants must have no apparent or potential ineligibility.
These upcoming changes mark a significant shift in the visa application process and will impact a large number of H-1B and L-1 visa holders and their families, as well as many other nonimmigrant visa applicants. We strongly encourage individuals and employers to plan ahead, especially for any travel or renewal needs occurring after September 1, 2025. Given the anticipated increase in demand for interview appointments and the stricter eligibility for interview waivers, early preparation and coordination with the appropriate consulate will be critical.