US Visa Rules: Till now, many Indians used to book interviews in countries like Singapore, Thailand or Dubai to avoid long wait in their country. Now this route has been completely closed. If a person applies for a visa from another country, his application may be rejected and his fees will also not be refunded.
NEW US Visa Rules: If you are thinking of going to America then this news is important for you. The US State Department has made a big change in its global rules for non-immigrant visa categories. Now you have to book a visa interview only in your home country or the country where you are legally living. This new rule has increased the difficulties of Indian applicants, especially those who travel frequently.
What is the new rule?
This change eliminates the facility of scheduling an interview in a third country. Till now, many Indians used to book interviews in countries like Singapore, Thailand or Dubai to avoid long wait in their country. Now this path is completely closed. If a person applies in the wrong jurisdiction, he will be at risk of the application being rejected and the fee will also not be refunded. This rule will apply to all visa categories including tourism, business, student and worker.
What will be the impact on Indians?
This rule is a big setback for India, as India is one of the largest sources of US visa applicants in the world. During the COVID pandemic, the backlog of visa appointments in India had increased to three years. The option to apply in a third country was a lifeline for those who had to travel urgently. Now this facility has ended, which will affect tourists and business travelers the most. This change will put further pressure on India’s already busy visa system, which may increase the waiting time even more.
Why was this rule implemented?
The US has taken this step to prevent ‘visa shopping’, where people used to apply in any country just to get a quick slot, even if they were not residents of that country. The new rule aims to streamline consular work, reduce administrative pressure and strengthen security checks. The rule also comes with changes to the Non-Immigrant Visa Interview Waiver Program, making the checks even more stringent.
Other major changes
Apart from this rule, the US has announced some other important changes:
In-person interview: From September 2025, in-person interviews will be mandatory for most applicants, including children under 14 years of age and senior citizens above 79 years of age, who were previously exempted.
New fees: From 2026, a new visa integrity fee (about $250) will also be imposed, which will act as a refundable deposit.
What should visa applicants keep in mind?
Now applicants will have to plan for their travel well in advance. Whether it is for vacation, studies or work, Indians will have to start the application process several months before their trip. Also, it will now be mandatory to show proof of residence (such as a rental agreement or utility bill). Avoid applying at the wrong place as this will result in loss of fees and may also result in rejection of the application.
The post NEW US Visa Rules: ‘Shortcut’ to get quick US visa has been closed! Difficulties increased for Indian applicants first appeared on informalnewz.
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