Important Update on Visa Interview Locations

The U.S. Department of State recently announced a significant change to the visa process that will affect many international students and scholars. As of September 6, 2025, applicants for nonimmigrant visas including F, M, J, H1B, and B1/B2 must schedule their visa interviews in their country of nationality or residence. See the original announcement on the U.S. Department of State website.

On the surface this may seem like a small administrative shift, but for international offices and the students they support, the impact could be far-reaching.

What Changed

In the past, students could often schedule their visa interviews at U.S. embassies or consulates outside their home countries if those locations had shorter wait times. This flexibility was a lifeline for students from countries with long backlogs, like India. Now, that option appears to be off the table.

Although the State Department has said that “existing nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally not be cancelled,” there are several reports of students and scholars who have had their cases placed into administrative processing with instructions to rebook interviews in their home countries.

Why It Matters

For years, the ability to apply in a third country helped many students overcome delays and start their programs on time. Without that option, backlogs in home countries could pose real challenges. International admissions offices will play a critical role in preparing students, setting expectations, and helping them avoid costly mistakes.

Important Considerations for International Offices

Based on our current understanding of the change, here are a few relevant points:

• Applicants must be able to prove residence – Details on how “residence” will be defined are not yet available. It is likely that simply being present in a country will not be sufficient. Applicants may need to show evidence of legitimate residence and duration. Based on reports from current cases, applicants who cannot demonstrate residence may be advised to apply from their home country.
• Some countries have designated alternatives – For applicants from countries where U.S. embassies or consulates do not provide routine visa services, the State Department has identified alternative locations:
  • Iranian nationals must apply in Dubai
  • Russian citizens may apply in Astana or Warsaw
  • Ukrainian citizens may apply in Krakow or Warsaw
• Fees will not be refunded if booked incorrectly
  If an applicant schedules an interview in the wrong location and cannot demonstrate nationality or residence, current information states that the application fee will not be refunded or transferred.

What International Offices Can Do Now

• Issue immigration documents early. The sooner applicants receive their I-20s, DS-2019s and approval notices, the sooner they can get in line for visa interviews.
• Communicate proactively. Help applicants understand the new requirement so they are set up for success the first time they book an appointment.
• Set realistic expectations. Students from high-demand countries may face longer wait times than in previous years, with fewer options to bypass bottlenecks. Consider ways that your institution can help accommodate this delay.
• Encourage preparation. With limited flexibility to reschedule and no fee refunds, applicants should treat their first interview as their best chance. Applicants should prepare in advance for their interview and might consider preparation from ZF Visa Guides, Visas 101, or Argo Visa
• Monitor for updates. The State Department is likely to continue to update and refine how this change will be implemented. Continue to monitor communications from DOS, NAFSA and your colleagues in the field to ensure you have the latest information.

While we wait for further clarification from the State Department, one message is clear: early planning is more important than ever.