New U.S. Visa Policy: Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants Must Apply in Country of Residence

As of September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has rolled out a significant change to its nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application process, impacting travelers worldwide. Under the new policy, nonimmigrant visa applicants are now required to schedule their visa interviews at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or legal residence. This shift aims to streamline visa processing, reduce global backlogs, and enhance security measures.

Here’s what you need to know about this important update:

What Does the New Policy Mean?

The core of the policy is straightforward: if you’re applying for a nonimmigrant visa—such as a tourist (B-2), business (B-1), or student (F-1) visa—you must now apply in either:

Your country of nationality, or
The country where you legally reside, provided you can demonstrate legal residency status.

This change is designed to ensure that visa applications are processed in locations where applicants have established ties, making it easier for consular officers to verify information and assess eligibility.

Exceptions to the Rule

Not all visa applicants or situations are subject to this new requirement. The policy does not apply to:

Certain visa categories, including A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO, diplomatic, or official visas.
Humanitarian or medical emergencies, where flexibility may be granted.
Cases involving U.S. foreign policy interests.

Additionally, for individuals from countries where the U.S. does not conduct routine NIV operations—such as Afghanistan, Belarus, Cuba, Iran, Russia, Venezuela, or Yemen—specific embassies or consulates have been designated for processing. For example:

Applicants from Afghanistan must apply in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Applicants from Russia can apply in Warsaw, Poland, or Astana, Kazakhstan.

Key Considerations for Applicants

If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa, here are some critical points to keep in mind:

Legal Residency Proof: If applying based on residency, you’ll need to provide documentation proving legal residence in that country.
Longer Wait Times: Applying outside your country of nationality or residence could result in extended wait times and a higher chance of visa denial.
Nonrefundable Fees: Visa application fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable, so choosing the right location is crucial to avoid complications.
Existing Appointments: Good news for those with scheduled interviews—most existing appointments will not be canceled, but check with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate to confirm.

Why the Change?

The U.S. Department of State introduced this policy to address several challenges in the visa application process. By directing applicants to their home or resident countries, the department aims to:

Reduce strain on embassies and consulates with high application volumes.
Improve efficiency by processing applications where applicants have verifiable ties.
Enhance security by ensuring consular officers can better assess an applicant’s background.

This move is part of broader efforts to modernize and secure the U.S. visa system while addressing global demand for travel to the United States.

Tips for Visa Applicants

To navigate this new policy smoothly, consider the following:

Check Embassy Websites: Each U.S. Embassy or Consulate has specific guidelines and wait times. Visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Prepare Documentation: Ensure you have all required documents, especially proof of legal residency if applying outside your country of nationality.
Plan Ahead: Visa processing times can vary significantly, so apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Seek Guidance: If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the process, consult with a qualified immigration attorney or trusted visa service provider.

The new U.S. nonimmigrant visa policy effective September 6, 2025, marks a significant shift for travelers worldwide. By requiring applicants to apply in their country of nationality or legal residence, the U.S. aims to create a more efficient and secure visa process.