The US Department of State has changed its visa interview waiver period from 48 to 12 months.
Applicants are required to attend an in-person interview if their visas expired more than a year ago. Previously, Travel News reported the US required an interview if the visa had expired more than two years prior to applying for renewal.
To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must also meet certain criteria:
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Apply in the country of nationality or residence
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Have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived)
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No other apparent or potential ineligibility
Consulates may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis.
