As of September 2025, the United States has implemented significant changes to its visa policies, impacting various categories of travelers, including tourists, students, and professionals.

Mandatory In-Person Interviews in Country of Residence

All nonimmigrant visa applicants are now required to schedule and attend in-person interviews at U.S. embassies or consulates in their country of citizenship or legal residence. This change eliminates the previous option of obtaining visa stamps in third countries, a practice that was especially useful during periods of high demand or backlogs. Exceptions are limited to applicants from countries without U.S. consular services and certain diplomatic or humanitarian cases.

Elimination of Interview Waivers

The U.S. has discontinued the interview waiver program for most nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those under 14 and over 79 years of age. Previously, certain applicants could renew visas without an in-person interview; this is no longer permitted, leading to longer wait times and increased processing durations.

Introduction of New Fees

  • Visa Integrity Fee: A new $250 fee has been introduced for all nonimmigrant visa applicants. While refundable upon compliance with visa terms, the refund process is expected to be complex.
  • Visa Bond Requirement: A 12-month pilot program requires certain applicants from countries with high visa overstay rates to pay a refundable bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. This measure aims to ensure compliance with visa conditions.

Changes to Employment-Based Visa Categories

The U.S. has reached the annual limits for the EB-1 and EB-2 employment-based green card categories for fiscal year 2025. No further green cards will be issued under these categories until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2025.

Proposed Reforms to H-1B Visa Program

The administration has proposed significant reforms to the H-1B visa program, including tightening eligibility criteria, enhancing compliance obligations, and modifying the visa allocation process. These changes aim to prioritize American workers and ensure that H-1B visas are awarded to the most qualified applicants.

Proposed Changes to F-1 Student Visas

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed altering the duration that F-1 student visa holders are allowed to remain in the U.S. and revising the process for extending their visa status. If enacted, these changes would represent significant modifications to U.S. student visa policy, potentially affecting thousands of international students each year.

Plan Your Journey with NAC Travel

These policy changes reflect a broader shift towards stricter immigration controls and increased scrutiny of visa applicants. Individuals planning to travel to the U.S. should prepare for longer processing times, additional fees, and more rigorous application procedures. Let NAC Travel guide you through your visa application process with expert advice and up-to-date information, ensuring a smoother travel experience to the USA.