The US Department of State (DOS) recently updated its instructions for all nonimmigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments, emphasizing the importance of applicants applying for visas in their country of residence or nationality. As of September 6, 2025, all nonimmigrant visa applicants must now schedule their visa interview exclusively at a US Embassy or Consulate located in their country of residence or nationality. This new directive emphasizes residency-based processing and largely eliminates third-country applications.
Removing third-country flexibility
Previously some nonimmigrant visa applicants could apply for visas at US embassies and consulates that were third-country friendly, irrespective of the applicants’ country of residence. According to the DOS, this created inconsistencies in processing and longer wait times for applicants in their home countries.
The new approach
The new guidance makes it clear that applicants for nonimmigrant visas should schedule their visa interview appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence to avoid potential delays and complications. The DOS expects this change to provide a more streamlined process, as consular officers will have a clearer understanding of the applicant’s background and ties to their home country. If applicants apply for a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate outside of their country of nationality, then they will have to provide evidence that they are a resident of that particular country.
Applicants who have already scheduled a nonimmigrant interview at a US Embassy or Consulate outside of their country of nationality or residence, should anticipate that the consulate will apply a higher level of scrutiny and it will be more difficult to qualify for the visa. Existing nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally not be cancelled. Additionally, the fees paid for applications are non-refundable and non-transferable.
For employers, it is essential to communicate this new guidance to employees and ensure they understand the importance of applying in their country of residence or nationality.
Vialto Partners will continue to monitor the implementation of this guidance and provide further updates as necessary to ensure that stakeholders are informed of any changes that may affect nonimmigrant visa processing.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Manish Daftari
Partner
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