On December 12, 2025, the Department of State (DOS) announced that it has updated its instructions for all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments.
Nonimmigrant Visas
- Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas should schedule their visa interview appointments at the S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
- Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine nonimmigrant visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere.
Immigrant Visas
- Immigrant visa applicants must interview in the consular district designated for their place of residence or in their country of nationality if requested, with limited exceptions.
- Residents of countries where routine visa operations are suspended or paused should apply at their designated immigrant visa processing post, unless the applicant is a national of another country with ongoing operations.
The announcements include a list of designated processing posts for applications.
