US Tightens Visa Interview Rules, Applicants Must Attend in Home Country Starting November 2025

US has tightened visa interview rules; announcing that applicants must attend in home country starting November 2025.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced that, beginning November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa applicants must attend their interviews in the consular district where they reside, or, if applicable, in their country of nationality.

Until now, applicants could select their preferred interview location, but the new directive ends that flexibility.

According to the DOS, the policy shift aligns with the Trump administration’s broader efforts to tighten immigration regulations and increase oversight.

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Who Is Affected

The rule applies to all immigrant visa categories, including family-based, employment-based, and Diversity Visa lottery cases. While the DOS noted that “rare exceptions” may be granted for humanitarian or medical emergencies, it did not provide further details.

For applicants in countries where U.S. embassies remain closed or visa services suspended, the DOS has designated alternative embassies or consulates where interviews must be conducted.

Impact on Families and Employers

The change could mean longer wait times, higher travel expenses, and stricter documentation requirements for families seeking reunification. U.S. employers sponsoring immigrant workers may also face delays and added costs if employees are required to travel to third countries for interviews.

The DOS emphasized that “most applicants will not have their interviews canceled or moved.” However, immigration lawyers are urging families and businesses to prepare early to avoid setbacks.