US Visa Policy Update: Interviews Must Now Be Done in Country of Residence

US Visa Policy Update: Interviews Must Now Be Done in Country of Residence

The U.S. Department of State has announced a major change to its non-immigrant visa process that directly impacts millions of applicants worldwide. Effective September 6, 2025, all non-immigrant visa applicants must now schedule their interviews at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.

This new directive marks the end of a long-standing practice that allowed applicants to “shop” for interview slots in neighboring countries, particularly when wait times in their own country were too long.

What the Policy Says

According to the official release from the U.S. State Department:

• Residence Requirement: Applicants must apply in their country of nationality or residence. They must also be able to demonstrate proof of residence if applying based on residency rather than nationality.

• Non-Transferable Fees: Applicants who attempt to book interviews in another country may face rejection. Fees paid for such applications will not be refunded or transferred.

• Existing Appointments: Scheduled appointments made before September 6, 2025, will generally not be cancelled.

• Exemptions: The new rules do not apply to diplomatic, NATO, or UN-related visas. Exceptions may also be granted for humanitarian or medical emergencies, or foreign policy reasons.

Why This Matters

For years, applicants from countries with heavy backlogs, such as Nigeria, have relied on neighboring consulates to fast-track visa applications. Many Nigerians unable to secure slots in Abuja or Lagos turned to embassies in Ghana, Cameroon, Namibia, Ivory Coast, Canada, or even the Dominican Republic.

With the new policy in place, this workaround is no longer possible. Nigerians (and other affected nationals) must now apply strictly in their home country or country of residence.

The Bigger Picture

The State Department explained that this sweeping adjustment is part of efforts to:

1. Streamline visa adjudications by reducing cross-border application inconsistencies.

2. Manage global backlogs created by post-pandemic travel surges.

3. Strengthen security checks by ensuring applicants are processed within their legal residence.

What Applicants Should Expect

• Longer Wait Times: Countries with historically high demand, such as Nigeria and India, may face extended delays for interview slots.

• Tighter Documentation Checks: Proof of residence will become more critical, especially for individuals applying outside their nationality country.

• Increased Costs for Errors: Booking an interview in the wrong country could mean losing the application fee with no refund.

Key Takeaways for Nigerian Applicants

• No More “Visa Tourism”: You can no longer secure U.S. visa interview slots in Ghana, Cameroon, or other neighboring countries.

• Apply in Abuja or Lagos Only: If you are a Nigerian resident, your application must go through the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos.

• Plan Ahead: Given that Nigeria already has long visa wait times, early planning is essential. Delays are likely to increase as demand piles up.

What You Can Do Now

1. Check Embassy Websites Regularly: Stay updated on wait times and scheduling procedures for your country.

2. Apply Early: Do not wait until the last minute, as the backlog will only grow.

3. Seek Professional Guidance: Missteps in booking could cost you time and money. Professional advisory services, such as those offered by Astral Trail, can help you navigate this change smoothly.

4. Prepare Documentation Carefully: Proof of residency is now a major factor, ensure you have valid documentation ready.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. government’s new visa directive is a game-changer for international travelers. By requiring interviews to be held strictly in an applicant’s country of nationality or residence, the State Department is reshaping how millions approach the visa process.

For Nigerians, this means a shift away from the long-relied-upon alternative of seeking faster slots abroad. It also means that preparation, patience, and professional guidance are now more important than ever.

At Astral Trail, we are committed to helping applicants navigate these policy changes with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s preparing your documents, monitoring appointment slots, or offering advisory support, we ensure that you are one step ahead in your visa journey.

We are here to guide you to your dream destination: Connect with us on:

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +234 912 799 6321, +234 707 795 3867

📧 Email: contact@astraltrailng.com

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