On Dec. 23, 2022, the U.S. Department of State announced an extension of interview waivers for certain nonimmigrant visas, and their qualifying derivatives, through Dec. 31, 2023.
Consular officers are authorized to waive interviews for the following visa categories: H-2, F, M, J, H-1B, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visas. Temporary workers who have an individual petition approved by USCIS (H-1B, H-3, H-4, L, O, P and Q visas) must meet certain conditions for a visa waiver including applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence.
In-person interviews may also be waived for applicants renewing a visa in the same classification within 48 months of the prior visa’s expiration. Consular officers have the discretion to require an interview on a case-by-case basis, considering local conditions. Please consult your local Embassy or Consulate to determine if you may qualify for a waiver of your visa interview. For more information on visa interview waiver eligibility, please visit Extension of Interview Waivers for Certain Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants – United States Department of State.