Effective September 2, 2025, all applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas, including children under 14 and adults over 79, must attend a face-to-face interview.
This new State Department rule eliminates previous exemptions. The measure, implemented under President Donald Trump’s administration, seeks greater rigor in the immigration process. In 2024, 12 million visa applications were processed.
New interview rule
The State Department announced that face-to-face interviews are mandatory as of September.
Previously, children under 14 and over 79 years of age were exempt.
Now, almost all applicants face this requirement.
In 2025, the U.S. expects 15 million visa applications.
Therefore, the change impacts families and seniors.
Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
In 2024, 20% of visa applications were from minors.
The measure seeks to ensure transparency in consulates.
Limited exceptions
The only exemptions apply to B-1/B-2 visa renewals and diplomatic categories.
Renewals require that the previous visa was valid for 10 years and is applied for within 12 months of expiration.
In 2024, 30% of the renewals met these criteria.
Consequently, A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1 to G-4, NATO 1-6 and TECRO E-1 visas are exempt.
However, the C-3 does not apply to personal employees of officers.
These exceptions represent less than 5% of the applications.
Application Process
Applicants must schedule two appointments: one at the Centro de Atención al Solicitante (CAS) for fingerprints and photos, and another at the consulate for the interview.
In 2025, the average wait time for appointments is 60 days. Minors require an original birth certificate.
Nevertheless, consulates retain the authority to require additional interviews.
In 2024, 10% of cases required extra revisions.
Applicants must submit documents supporting their reason for travel, such as reservations or letters of invitation.
Impact on families
Families with children face greater complications.
Minors must be accompanied, which implies additional costs.
In 2024, 1.5 million visas were granted to minors.
The face-to-face interview can generate stress in children, according to migration experts.
For their part, older adults also face challenges.
In 2025, 8% of applicants are over 79 years old.
Limited mobility and health problems hinder the process.
Embassies have promised adjustments to facilitate their attendance.
Migration policy context
The measure reflects Trump’s immigration approach.
Since January 2025, his administration has strengthened border controls.
In 2024, 2 million visa applications were denied due to irregularities.
The new rule seeks to standardize processes at embassies and consulates.
In addition, the State Department emphasizes quality and safety.
Consular officers check background and reasons for travel.
In 2025, 90% of the denials were due to incomplete documentation.
Transparency is now a priority.
Preparations for travelers
Applicants should prepare documents carefully.
Hotel reservations, itineraries and financial proof are essential.
In 2024, 15% of the denials occurred due to lack of these papers.
Consulates recommend reviewing the requirements on their website.
Meanwhile, waiting times have increased.
In 2025, Mexico and Colombia reported delays of up to 90 days for appointments.
Travelers should plan months in advance.
Patience and organization are key to comply with the new rules.
Reactions and expectations
The migrant community expressed concern about costs and logistics.
In 2024, the visa process cost an average of US$185 per person.
Face-to-face interviews add transportation costs.
Families seek legal guidance to adapt.
Therefore, consulates have extended opening hours.
By 2025, 1,000 consular officers are expected to handle the additional interviews.
The measure, although strict, seeks to guarantee a fair process.
Applicants should be prepared for more rigorous scrutiny.
This article was originally published in Nueva News
