Attention! U.S. tightens rules for renewing visas without an interview

paola vanessa romero rondon
20 hours ago
3 min read

If you are planning to renew your U.S. visa, it is important to be aware of recent changes to the Interview Waiver Program, known as Dropbox. The U.S. government has reversed the flexibilities implemented during the pandemic, which could affect thousands of applicants.

Here is a clear and simple explanation of what has changed, who will be affected and how you can prepare.

The U.S. Department of State has implemented two key changes that tighten the conditions for renewing a visa without an interview:

Reduced renewal window: Previously, you could renew your visa without an interview if it had expired within the last 48 months. Now, it will only be possible if the visa expired within the last 12 months.

Same visa category requirement: Now, you can only renew without an interview if you are applying for the same visa category you had before. For example:

If you had an F-1 student visa and now need an H-1B work visa, you will have to attend an in-person interview.

How will these changes impact visa applicants?

1. Workers on H-1B, L-1 and O-1 visas

Previously, many professionals were able to renew their visas without an interview, but now they will face longer waiting times at consulates.

This could delay the ability to travel for work and affect work planning.

2. Relatives of work visa holders

Spouses and children on H-4 or L-2 visas must also comply with the new 12-month rule.

In some cases, if a family member does not qualify for the exemption, you will need to schedule a face-to-face interview.

3. F-1 visa students

Reduced exemption time could cause delays in renewals and make international student travel more difficult.

It is recommended to renew in advance to avoid inconveniences.

4. Tourist and business visa holders (B1/B2)

Now, they will only be able to renew without an interview if their previous visa expired within the last 12 months.

This could increase waiting times at consulates in countries with high demand, such as Mexico and India.

To qualify for renewal without an interview, you must meet all of these requirements:

Your previous visa expired within the last 12 months.
You are renewing the same visa category.
You have never had any eligibility problems or visa rejections.
You are renewing in your country of nationality or residence.

If you fail to meet even one of these points, you will need to schedule an in-person interview.

In view of these changes, we recommend:

Plan ahead: If you need to renew your visa, do it with enough time to avoid setbacks.

Check if you qualify for Dropbox: If you don't meet the requirements, be prepared to schedule an interview.

Check waiting times: Each consulate has different waiting times. You can check them on the Department of State's official website.

Consider premium processing: For visas such as the H-1B, you may opt for expedited processing if available.

Changes to the Dropbox process could mean more in-person interviews and longer wait times for many visa applicants. If you plan to travel or renew your visa, it is important to be informed and take precautions in advance.

Share this information with friends and family so they can be prepared.

Source: El País

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