Based on recent reports, some U.S. Consulates have changed the eligibility for Interview Waiver (Drop Box) visa processing.

To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must now meet the following criteria:



• Applicant previously held a visa in the same category that expired less than 12 months prior to the new visa application date;
• Applicant is applying in their country of nationality or residence;
• Applicant has never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived); and
• Applicant has no apparent or potential ineligibility.

These changes have been implemented with little or no notice. There are reports that applicants with drop box appointments for interview waivers have been turned away and told to schedule in-person interview appointments.

This narrowing of eligibility for the interview waiver program is expected to significantly increase appointment wait times for in-person appointments. Further, the interview wait times search tool has been discontinued and the global wait times have not been updated since early January.

Visa applicants are reminded that the interview waiver program is discretionary, and applicants may be called for an in-person interview at any time, even if the U.S. Consulate has not otherwise updated its interview waiver criteria.

Applicants should ensure they timely renew their visas and be prepared for the potential of an in-person interview request.