US Tightens Visa Rules: Applicants Must Attend Interviews in Home Country

The US Department of State (DOS) has announced stricter visa interview rules, requiring immigrant visa applicants to attend interviews in their home country starting November 1, 2025. This new directive eliminates the flexibility for applicants to choose their interview location and aims to tighten immigration regulations.

The DOS stated that this policy shift aligns with previous efforts to increase oversight in the immigration process. While exceptions may be granted for humanitarian or medical emergencies, most applicants must now attend interviews in their home country's consular district.

The change could result in longer wait times, increased travel expenses, and stricter documentation requirements for families seeking reunification or employers sponsoring immigrant workers.