The United States has released updated guidance for those seeking nonimmigrant visas, mandating that the majority apply in the country of their nationality or residence. Citizens from nations lacking regular services must utilize specific embassies, adhering to strict protocols regarding fees, proof of residency, and extended wait durations.
If you intend to visit the United States and require a non-immigrant visa, it is important to note a recent policy modification set to take effect on September 6, 2025.
The U.S. Department of State has enforced stricter regulations for non-immigrant visa seekers. Travelers must now schedule their visa interview appointments either in their country of citizenship or in the jurisdiction where they hold legal residency.
The Fundamental Change
Going forward, individuals seeking U.S. non-immigrant visas are required to book their interviews at the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of citizenship or the nation where they reside legally. Practically, this means that most travelers will be tied to their local embassies or to the place where they can demonstrate legal residency.
Nations Lacking Routine Visa Services
For citizens of specific countries where the U.S. has halted regular visa processes, designated embassies in other nations will function as processing locations. Individuals from these countries will need to go to the following sites:
| Citizen of | Submit Application at |
|---|---|
| Afghanistan | Islamabad |
| Belarus | Vilnius, Warsaw |
| Chad | Yaoundé |
| Cuba | Georgetown |
| Haiti | Nassau |
| Iran | Dubai |
| Libya | Tunis |
| Niger | Ouagadougou |
| Russia | Astana, Warsaw |
| Somalia | Nairobi |
| South Sudan | Nairobi |
| Sudan | Cairo |
| Syria | Amman |
| Ukraine | Krakow, Warsaw |
| Venezuela | Bogotá |
| Yemen | Riyadh |
| Zimbabwe | Johannesburg |
Essential Information for Applicants
Demonstrating Residency
Nonrefundable Fees
Application fees are linked to the post where you apply. If you submit your application in an incorrect location, your payment will not be refunded.
Waiting Period for Appointments
The availability of visa interview slots can differ significantly based on the location. Individuals applying outside of their home country should anticipate notably longer wait periods.
Current Appointments
Exemptions
This policy will not impact applicants applying for A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, as well as official or diplomatic visas, or travel governed by the UN Headquarters Agreement. Limited exceptions may also be available in cases of urgent humanitarian needs, medical situations, or foreign policy concerns.
Implications for Travelers
For the majority of applicants, the guideline is clear: apply in your home country or place of legal residence. The primary effect will be experienced by nationals from nations where the U.S. has ceased regular visa services. For these individuals, the specified locations above will constitute the only acceptable options.
The State Department strongly encourages applicants to thoroughly review the official website of the embassy or consulate where they plan to file their applications. Each site has individual procedures, waiting times, and operational statuses.
This new directive supersedes all prior guidelines regarding where to submit applications for non-immigrant visas.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
