On August 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced new guidance for immigrant visa processing. Starting November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa applicants will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate serving their country of residence. Applicants may alternatively request to interview in their country of nationality, with only limited exceptions allowed.
This policy change impacts family-based, employment-based, and Diversity Visa (DV-2026) applicants, and supersedes all previous guidance on designated visa processing posts.
