As global travel continues to rebound, the United States has introduced significant changes to its visa application process that will impact travelers worldwide, including those in Dubai, the UAE, India, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt. Starting September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants will now be required to attend in-person interviews, reversing several lenient rules that were put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. This major shift is expected to significantly affect short-term visa applicants, especially those seeking B1/B2 tourist and business visas, and could lead to longer wait times and more stringent document requirements.

The move is part of the U.S. Department of State’s efforts to restore standard processing and screening procedures that were temporarily relaxed during the pandemic. While some categories of applicants may still qualify for interview waivers, the vast majority will now need to plan for additional steps in the visa process. This change will especially affect those from countries with high numbers of visa applicants, including Indian, Filipino, and Arab expats residing in the UAE. As a result, travelers will need to adjust their expectations and prepare for longer processing times, more comprehensive documentation, and in-person interviews as the U.S. returns to a more rigorous visa application protocol.

In this article, we will delve into the specifics of these new U.S. visa rules, the categories that are still exempt from interviews, and the broader implications of these changes on travelers from major regions, particularly the UAE and India. We’ll also offer tips on how to navigate these adjustments to ensure smooth travel plans.

Overview of U.S. Visa Changes: What’s New?

Starting September 2, 2025, a new U.S. visa policy will significantly alter the visa application process for most non-immigrant travelers, including children under 14 and adults over 79 years old, who were previously exempt from in-person interviews. This policy aims to return the U.S. visa system to pre-pandemic protocols, ending the temporary leniencies introduced to manage the global health crisis.

For many applicants, especially those seeking B1/B2 tourist or business visas, this means they will now be required to attend in-person interviews as part of their visa processing. The new system will likely slow down the overall processing time for visa applications, as U.S. consulates and embassies across the globe will have to manage higher volumes of applicants for face-to-face interviews.

Some travelers may still be eligible for an interview waiver, but these exceptions will be more limited than in the past. The U.S. Department of State has clarified that only certain categories of travelers will continue to benefit from the interview waiver, including:

• Diplomatic and Official Visa Applicants: Applicants for diplomatic or official visas under A, G, NATO, and TECRO E categories.
• Renewing B1/B2 Visas: Applicants who are renewing their B1/B2 visas within 12 months of the expiration date, provided that their previous visa was issued when they were at least 18 years old.

These waivers will be granted under strict conditions, and consular officers can still request an in-person interview at their discretion.

Key Changes to U.S. Visa Interview Requirements

The primary change to U.S. visa procedures involves the reintroduction of mandatory in-person interviews for most applicants. These interviews will be required even for those who previously benefited from interview waivers, including children and elderly travelers. While the specific categories eligible for waivers have been outlined above, the general shift is toward a more rigid, in-person vetting process.

Visa Categories Impacted by the Changes

• B1/B2 Tourist and Business Visas: These are the most commonly affected categories. Applicants for these short-term visas will no longer automatically qualify for an interview waiver, even if they previously had no issues in obtaining a visa.
• H1-B, L1, and Other Work Visas: Professionals applying for work visas will need to attend interviews unless they meet specific criteria for a waiver. This will particularly affect people from countries like India, the Philippines, and certain Middle Eastern countries, where work visa applications are common.
• F-1 and J-1 Student Visas: International students will also see an impact, as even those renewing their student visas may now be required to attend interviews. Given the high volume of student visa applicants from countries like India, China, and the UAE, this could cause significant delays in processing.
• Other Non-Immigrant Visas: Applicants for other types of non-immigrant visas, including temporary workers and tourists, will be similarly affected.

Implications for Applicants from the UAE, India, Philippines, and Other Countries

The new visa rules are expected to have the most significant impact on residents of countries that are major sources of U.S. visa applicants, including the UAE, India, and the Philippines. These regions already experience high demand for U.S. visas, and the additional requirement for in-person interviews could further strain consulate resources and lead to longer wait times.

• UAE: As a significant hub for expatriates, particularly from India and the Philippines, the UAE is likely to see a surge in demand for visa interview slots. Both the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate in Dubai will need to manage this influx, potentially causing delays for applicants.
• India: India is one of the largest sources of U.S. visa applications, with thousands of people seeking B1/B2 visas each month. The new rules are likely to affect many applicants, especially those who previously enjoyed interview waivers, such as children and the elderly.
• Philippines: Like India, the Philippines has a large number of citizens seeking U.S. visas, particularly for family reunification and employment purposes. The new regulations will affect a significant portion of applicants from the Philippines, leading to longer wait times and increased pressure on consular staff.

How to Prepare for the Changes

Applicants from impacted countries need to adjust their expectations and plan ahead to account for the longer processing times and increased documentation requirements associated with the new U.S. visa rules. Here are a few steps to help ensure a smooth application process:

• Check Eligibility for Interview Waivers: While the majority of applicants will need to attend interviews, some may still qualify for waivers. Applicants should consult the U.S. consulate or embassy website in their region to confirm their eligibility.
• Plan for Longer Wait Times: Due to the increased demand for visa appointments, it is advisable to schedule visa interviews as early as possible, especially for travel during peak seasons like summer and the year-end holidays.
• Prepare All Required Documentation: U.S. visa applications require detailed documentation. Be sure to review the updated document checklist for your visa category, and ensure that all required forms, proof of financial support, and travel plans are submitted with your application.
• Follow Embassy Updates: Visa rules and procedures may change or vary by location. Always check the official U.S. embassy or consulate website for the latest information on appointment availability, document requirements, and interview procedures.

Conclusion: What Travelers Need to Know

The new U.S. visa rules represent a significant shift in the application process, with the introduction of mandatory in-person interviews for most non-immigrant visa applicants starting September 2, 2025. While some categories will remain eligible for interview waivers, the vast majority of travelers will need to prepare for longer processing times, additional documentation, and face-to-face interviews.

For applicants from countries with high visa demand, such as the UAE, India, and the Philippines, these changes will require more careful planning and earlier application submissions. By staying informed and following the guidelines provided by the U.S. embassy or consulate, travelers can better navigate the updated visa process and minimize delays in their travel plans.