Interview waiver program ends: H-1B visa interview required now

The U.S. has officially announced the end of its Interview waiver program, popularly known as the drop box facility, effective September 2, 2025. This major change means that even for H-1B visa interview renewals, most applicants must now appear in person at a U.S. consulate. The move is expected to affect thousands of non-immigrant visa holders, leading to longer appointment wait times and a more intensive visa process.

What’s Changing?

Previously, eligible applicants could skip the interview and simply submit documents at a Visa Application Center through the drop box program. This option is now removed for the majority of cases.

From September 2, 2025:

• Mandatory in-person interviews for most non-immigrant visa categories

• Includes H-1B, L-1, F-1, O-1, and other work/study visas

• Age-based waivers and “no-refusal history” waivers are discontinued

• Consular officers can still use discretion but are now encouraged to require interviews

Who Can Still Skip the Interview?

While most categories lose the waiver, there are a few limited exemptions:

• Diplomatic & official visas – e.g., A-1, G-1 through G-4, NATO, TECRO E-1

• Certain B-1/B-2 renewals – only if:

  • Renewal is within 12 months of visa expiry

  • Application is made in the country of residence

  • Prior visa was valid, with no refusals or ineligibility

  • No changes in applicant’s eligibility or circumstances

Note: Even in these cases, consular officers may still require an interview at their discretion.

Impact on Applicants

With the removal of the drop box facility:

• Increased wait times for visa appointments

• Need for advance planning to secure a slot at U.S. consulates

• More travel costs for those living far from consulates

• Additional preparation needed to answer H-1B visa interview questions

• Greater importance of complete and accurate documentation

Why the Change?

The U.S. State Department cites the following reasons:

• Enhanced security – face-to-face interviews help detect fraud and security risks

• Standardized processing – applying the same level of scrutiny to all applicants

• Post-pandemic adjustments – temporary waivers introduced during COVID-19 are being rolled back

How Swainz Overseas Careers Can Help

If you’re searching for the best U.S. immigration consultancy in Hyderabad, Swainz Overseas Careers is a trusted partner in navigating these changes. Here’s how we can help:

• Interview readiness – coaching on common and complex visa questions

• Documentation review – ensuring error-free and complete paperwork

• Strategic appointment booking – finding faster slots across consulates if possible

• Policy updates – keeping you informed about any further changes or exceptions

• Personalized guidance – tailoring the application strategy to your profile and visa type

By combining in-depth U.S. immigration expertise with hands-on client support, Swainz makes the complex visa process smoother and more predictable.

The end of the Interview waiver program marks a major policy shift for non-immigrant visa holders, especially H-1B professionals. This change will likely increase processing times, but with the right preparation and guidance from experts like Swainz Overseas Careers, you can face your H-1B visa interview with confidence. Plan ahead, prepare thoroughly, and you’ll be ready for your U.S. journey.