The Department of State has waived, through December 31, 2021, the in-person interview requirement for nationals of eligible countries applying for F, M, and academic J (students, professors, research scholars, short-term scholars, or specialists) visas, subject to certain conditions. Prospective F, M, and academic J visa applicants who were previously issued any type of visa, and who have never been refused a visa unless such refusal was overcome or waived may be considered for waiver of the in-person interview requirement. First-time and renewing F, M, and academic J visa applicants who are citizens or nationals of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may also avail the interview waiver even when applying outside their consular district.
For the procedures to apply for waiver of the in-person interview for F, M, or academic J visa applications, please click here.
Consular officers determine if an applicant qualifies for interview waiver. In some cases, eligible applicants may still be required to appear for an interview. Applicants are encouraged to submit their application as far in advance of their planned travel as possible to allow for the possibility that extended processing including a visa interview will be necessary in their case.
Questions about these and any other consular processes may be directed to our inquiry form here.
Raavas Visa 