Visa interview waiver eligibility criteria updated for visa applicants in India

Through February 2025, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India have expanded eligibility for the Interview Waiver (IW) program, also referred to as the “Dropbox” program. The applicant is immediately eligible for the Interview Waiver if they possess the following:

– **Same Classification Visa Renewal**: Applicants are renewing the same nonimmigrant classification category visa that was on their prior visa.

– **Previous Visa Expires in the Last 12 Months**: The previous visa should have expired in the last 12 months.

With this change, the requirements revert to pre-pandemic levels, so fewer applicants would be able to use the Interview Waiver.

Also, the U.S. Embassy in India has centralized most nonimmigrant visa Interview Waiver cases processing at Chennai for greater efficiency. All visa types except B1/B2 short-term visitor visas will be processed through centralization.

For Interview Waiver-eligible applicants, the process is submitting the visa application and supporting documents at approved drop-off locations. The documents can be submitted and held through the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services website.

Also keep in mind that consular officers have the discretion to invite an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis or pursuant to local conditions. Therefore even if you are a candidate for the Interview Waiver, you may still be invited to appear for an interview.

For the newest facts and complete guidelines, it would be advisable for a person to go to the official website of the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India or reach the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services.