New US Visa Interview Rule: What Immigrants Must Know Now

If you’re planning to immigrate to the United States, there’s a major update you need to know. Starting November 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has changed how immigrant visa interviews are scheduled—and it’s already reshaping the immigration process for thousands of applicants worldwide.

   

This isn’t just a minor tweak. It’s a sweeping policy shift that affects all immigrant visa categories, including family-based, employment-based, and Diversity Visa lottery applicants. If you’re in the middle of your visa journey or preparing to start, here’s what you need to understand.

What’s Changing in the US Immigrant Visa Interview Process?

Until now, applicants could choose where to attend their visa interviews. Many opted for consulates in countries with shorter wait times or more efficient processing. That flexibility is gone.

Under the new rule, all immigrant visa applicants must attend interviews in either:

• The consular district where they currently reside
• Or, if requested, their country of nationality

This means no more hopping to neighboring countries for faster appointments. The U.S. Department of State has made it clear: interviews must happen where you live or where you’re a citizen, with very few exceptions.

Why the Change?

The official reason is increased oversight and security. The Trump administration has emphasized tighter immigration controls, and this policy is part of that broader effort.

But there’s more to it. The U.S. is also trying to streamline its consular operations and reduce fraud. By limiting interviews to a person’s home country or residence, consular officers can better verify documentation and background information.

Who Is Affected?

This rule applies to all immigrant visa categories, including:

• Family-based visas (e.g., spouses, parents, children of U.S. citizens)
• Employment-based visas
• Diversity Visa lottery winners (DV-2026 and beyond)

If you’re applying from a country where the U.S. embassy is closed or visa services are suspended, you’ll be assigned to a designated processing post. For example, Iranian nationals must now interview in Abu Dhabi, Ankara, or Yerevan.

You can find the full list of designated posts on the Boundless Immigration website.

What About Exceptions?

Rare exceptions may be granted for:

• Humanitarian emergencies
• Medical emergencies
• Foreign policy considerations

However, these are not guaranteed and require additional documentation. If you believe you qualify, you’ll need to contact the National Visa Center using their Public Inquiry Form—not the consulate directly.

What Immigrant Families and Employers Should Expect

This change could mean:

• Longer wait times for interviews
• Higher travel costs for applicants in countries with suspended services
• More complex documentation requirements
• Delays for U.S. companies sponsoring immigrant workers

Lawyers and immigration experts are urging applicants to plan ahead. If you’re sponsoring a family member or employee, start preparing early to avoid setbacks.

What You Should Do Now

If you’re already in the process:

• Confirm your assigned interview location with the National Visa Center
• Do not attempt to transfer your case without approval
• Prepare all required documents thoroughly
• Monitor updates from the U.S. Visa Newsroom

If you haven’t started yet:

• Make sure your country of residence has an active U.S. consulate
• Understand the wait times and requirements specific to your location
• Be ready for stricter scrutiny during the interview

FAQs: US Immigrant Visa Interview Rule Change

Q: Can I still choose a different country for my interview? A: No. Interviews must be held in your country of residence or nationality, unless you qualify for a rare exception.

Q: What if my country doesn’t have a functioning U.S. embassy? A: You’ll be assigned to a designated processing post. For example, applicants from Venezuela will interview in Bogotá.

Q: Will existing appointments be canceled? A: Most existing appointments will remain unchanged. However, future scheduling will follow the new rules.

Q: How do I request an exception? A: Use the National Visa Center’s Public Inquiry Form to submit your request. Do not contact the consulate directly.

Q: Does this affect non-immigrant visas too? A: Yes. A similar rule now applies to non-immigrant visa applicants, including B1/B2, F-1, and H-1B categories5.

Final Thoughts

This policy shift is a big deal. It’s not just about where you go for your interview—it’s about how the U.S. is reshaping its immigration system. If you’re planning to immigrate, stay informed, stay prepared, and don’t leave anything to chance.

For ongoing updates, check the U.S. Department of State’s visa news page and consult with a qualified immigration attorney if needed.

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