As a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Department of State has expanded the eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa interview waiver through December 31, 2022.

You may qualify for an interview waiver for an nonimmigrant visa application, including:

• Visa for temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers (H-2 visa)
• Other temporary employment nonimmigrant visas (H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visas):
  • if you were previously issued any type of visa, or
  • if you are from a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and previously traveled to the U.S. under an ESTA authorization.
• Visa for students, professors, research scholars, short-term scholars, or specialists (F, M, and academic J visas):
  • if you were previously issued any type of visa, or
  • if you are from a country that participates in VWP and previously traveled to the U.S. under an ESTA authorization.

Applicants renewing any visa within 48 months of expiration are also eligible for interview waiver.

Be advised: As procedures will vary from consulate to consulate around the world and the consulate has discretion to require an interview of any visa applicant, you should consult an immigration attorney to discuss how to file and whether you may qualify for a waiver.

If you have questions regarding your case, we encourage you to contact our office at Ha Nguyen Law at (916) 281-9135.