Visa Interviews Must Take Place in Your Country of Nationality or Residence

On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State released new guidance titled Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in Their Country of Residence, effective immediately. The notice, linked here, updates instructions for all nonimmigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments, noting:

• "Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas (NIV) should schedule their visa interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
• Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine nonimmigrant visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere."

Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine nonimmigrant visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere. The news posting lists these designated locations.

How does this affect Duke students, scholars and employees?

Effective immediately, student, scholars and employees should plan to schedule and attend in-person visa interviews in their country of nationality or residence when applying for or renewing a nonimmigrant (F, J, H-1B, etc. ) visa.

If you already have scheduled travel which involves renewing a visa, please review and carefully consider the State Department statement fully.