The U.S Department of State has rolled out a new policy that significantly changes how non-immigrant visa applications are processed globally. From now on, applicants must schedule their visa interviews at the U.S Embassy or Consulate located in their country of nationality or residence.
The new rule, which takes immediate effect, was officially published on the State Department’s website on September 6, 2025, and replaces all previous instructions related to visa processing locations.
“Applicants must now be able to show proof of residence in the country where they apply, and those applying outside their home country may face difficulties or outright rejection,” the Department said.
Key Changes Under the New Policy
1. Mandatory Local Interviews:
All non-immigrant visa applicants including for tourism, study, or work must now apply from within their country of residence or citizenship.
2. No Refunds for Misplaced Applications:
Applicants who attempt to book interviews outside their country of residence may be denied, and their application fees will not be refunded or transferred.
3. Longer Wait Times Abroad:
If an applicant chooses to apply outside their home country, they should be prepared for significantly longer appointment wait times, and increased scrutiny.
For citizens of countries where the U.S does not maintain active visa services such as Afghanistan, Iran, Cuba, Yemen, Belarus, Russia, and Venezuela, the State Department has listed alternative “designated” embassies where applications will be accepted. These include:
Afghans → Islamabad
Iranians → Dubai
Venezuelans → Bogotá
Yemenis → Riyadh
Russians → Astana or Warsaw
Cubans → Georgetown
This new directive will have a major impact on Nigerians, many of whom have historically traveled to countries like Ghana, Benin, Cameroon, Namibia, Canada, or even the Dominican Republic in search of faster interview dates when slots in Lagos or Abuja were fully booked.
With the new rule, Nigerians must now apply strictly from within Nigeria even if appointment availability is limited. The longstanding strategy of “visa shopping” across borders is effectively over.
Diplomatic visa holders, NATO officials and those applying under United Nations arrangements are not affected by this change.
Emergency cases including humanitarian or medical situations may still be considered for exceptions.
The U.S government says the policy aims to streamline visa processing globally, clear application backlogs and improve national security screening by verifying applicant ties to their country of residence.
Embassies and consulates are expected to update their websites with location-specific guidance, including wait times and documentation requirements.
If you’re planning to apply for a U.S visa, check appointment availability early in your country of residence, do not book interviews in another country unless explicitly permitted, also understand that fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected for being submitted in the wrong location.
