U.S. Tightens Visa Rules Again: Expect Longer Wait Times
The United States has introduced another round of visa restrictions. The State Department said Saturday that nonimmigrant visa interviews must now be scheduled in the applicant’s country of nationality or residence. The rule applies to short-term visas covering tourism, business, students, and temporary workers.
In practice, that means applicants can no longer book interviews in a third country to avoid long waits, unless they live there or come from a country where the U.S. does not process visas.
“Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas (NIV) should schedule their visa interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence,” the department said in a statement.
How It WorksAnyone needing a new U.S. visa to return after traveling abroad, must now apply only in their home country or country of residence. Those already in the U.S. who need to extend their stay
skift.
