US tightens visa rules again: Brace for more in-person interviews, longer queues

New US rules mean fewer visa interview waivers—kids and seniors may also now need one

Last updated: July 28, 2025 | 14:13

2 MIN READ

New US visa rules has been disrupting Indian students’ travel and work plans since February.

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Dubai: If you’re a UAE resident planning a trip to the US, here’s a key update. Starting September 2, 2025, most applicants for US non-immigrant visas — including children under 14 and adults over 79 — must appear for in-person interviews, even if they were previously exempt.

The US Department of State confirmed the change in a July 25 update that reverses many of the flexible interview waiver rules introduced during the pandemic.

The change affects popular short-term visas like the B1/B2 (business/tourist) category and is likely to slow down processing times for applicants globally, including UAE-based Indian, Filipino, and Arab expats.

Also Read: UAE residents eye US residency, but risks and visa traps grow in 2025

What’s changing—and why it matters

The US is reinstating strict screening protocols for most non-immigrant visa categories. This means:

Interview waivers will be harder to get.
Children and elderly applicants, previously exempt, now must typically attend interviews.
Travellers renewing visitor visas will only qualify for waivers if they meet every condition set by the US consulate.

According to the update, the goal is to return to standard screening procedures after years of temporary relaxations introduced during COVID-19.

Who still qualifies for a visa interview waiver?

Only a few categories now qualify:

Diplomatic & official visa applicants under A, G, NATO categories.
B1/B2 visitor visa renewals, but only if:
- You apply within 12 months of visa expiry.
- You're applying from your home country or country of residence.
- You’ve never been refused a visa or resolved any refusal.
- You have no potential ineligibility flags.

Even then, consular officers can still call you in at their discretion.

Also Read: Soon, UAE applicants have to pay an additional $250 for their US visa

For UAE residents and frequent fliers

Whether you’re an Indian expat visiting family, an Emirati attending business meetings, or a student returning to campus — this update affects most short-term US visitors.

You’ll now need to factor in longer lead times, earlier appointments, and more documentation. For UAE applicants, this could mean scheduling interviews at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the US Consulate in Dubai, depending on your location.

Next steps for travellers

Visit the US embassy or consulate website where you plan to apply.
Check for appointment availability, document checklists, and wait times.
Plan ahead — especially if you’re booking year-end trips or family holidays.

“Applicants should check embassy and consulate websites for updated visa requirements,” the Department advised.

Also Read: US resumes visas for foreign students but demands access to social media accounts

Why now?

This rule change replaces the broader February 2025 waiver policy and is part of the newly signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping Trump-era law signalling tougher immigration policies.

The bottom line? Whether you’re renewing your B1/B2 visa or applying for the first time, don’t assume you’ll skip the interview anymore. Prepare early.

Justin VargheseYour Money Editor

Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.