US Visa Interview Rule: US government changed rules for visa renewal, CHECK Details Here

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US Visa Interview: There is bad news for Indians who earlier used to get US visa easily without giving a visa interview. America has changed the eligibility criteria for ‘Visa Interview Waiver’ i.e. exemption from visa interview.

‘Visa Interview Waiver’ is also known as ‘Dropbox’ facility, for which the rules have now been tightened. The new rules have come into effect from now and it will affect many people including H-1B and B1/B2 visa holders.

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Now only those people will get a chance to use Dropbox, whose visa has expired in the last 12 months and they are getting their visa renewed in the same category. Earlier this limit was 48 months. The new rules will have the biggest impact on Indian H-1B visa holders. Apart from this, B1/B2 visa holders who go to America for tourism or business will also be affected by the new rules. These people had benefited a lot from the relaxation in rules during Covid.

Those who do not follow the rules are being returned

Although no official announcement has been made in this regard yet, according to The National Law Review, Visa Application Centers (VAC) have started implementing the new rules and those who are not meeting these rules are being sent back. Many rules have already been changed in America since Donald Trump became President. The change in the rules of Visa Interview Waiver is the latest change made by the Trump government, which is affecting Indians.

What kind of changes have been seen?

Previously, people whose visas had expired in the last 48 months could renew their visas through the dropbox process. This policy, implemented in 2022, was to reduce long wait times at US embassies and consulates. Reverting to the 12-month rule before the Covid pandemic means that now only those people can apply without an interview whose previous visa expired within the last one year.

What things need to be taken care of?

At the same time, now applicants should check the eligibility criteria before taking a dropbox appointment. Those whose visa has expired more than 12 months ago will have to take an appointment for the interview. Given the high demand for interview slots, applicants should also be prepared for long processing times. H-1B visa holders can opt for premium processing for extensions to avoid any disruption in travel.

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