U.S. Department of State Announces that Applicants for Non-Immigrant Visas Need to Schedule Visa Appointments in Their Country of Nationality or Country of Residence

On September 6, 2025, the Department of State (DoS) announced new requirements for applicants seeking non-immigrant visas, including F-1/F-2 and J-1/J-2 visas. Applicants are now directed to apply for visas in their country of nationality or country of residence. If consular services are not available in either of these locations, applicants must apply at designated locations for non-immigrant visa processing.  

According to the announcement, existing nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally not be cancelled, however, the Department of State has indicated that applicants attending nonimmigrant interviews at a location other than their country of nationality or residence may experience difficulties and delays qualifying for a visa. Any visa fees paid for non-immigrant interviews are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a different location. 

For more detailed information, including a list of designated sites and potential exceptions, please visit the Department of State's website.