Understanding the important contributions foreign nationals make to college and university campuses, The Department of State (DOS) announced on September 14th, 2021 that Consular officers are authorized to expand the categories of F, M, and “academic J visa applicants” eligible to be waived from the in-person interview with certain exceptions. Consular officers may now waive the visa interview requirements for F, M and academic J applicants who were previously issued any type of visa and who had never been refused a visa. If the applicant was initially refused but the visa refusal was overcome and the applicant has no potential ineligibility for the visa, the interview can be waived. Interviews can also be waived for F, M and academic J visa applicants who are citizens or nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries provided there is no potential ineligibility. It is advisable that visa applicants check the website for the related consulate for further guidance on applying for a visa without an interview. The attorneys at Green and Spiegel are here to assist if needed.
