New U.S. Visa Rule: No More Third-Country Applications

Effective September 6, 2025 — The U.S. Department of State now requires almost all nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants—whether for tourism, work, study, or exchange—to apply only in their country of citizenship or legal residence. This change formally ends the option of using third countries with shorter appointment queues to secure faster visa interviews.

What’s Changed?

You must apply from your home country or legal residence: This includes everyone, from students and tourists to business travelers.

No more "third-country stamping": Processing a visa in another country (that you're not a citizen or resident of) is now effectively discouraged, if not prohibited.

Designated embassies for special cases: Nationals of countries without routine U.S. visa services (such as Russia, Iran, Cuba, Venezuela, Ukraine, and others) must apply at specified alternative consulates. For instance, Russia → Astana or Warsaw; Iran → Dubai; Cuba → Georgetown; Ukraine → Krakow or Warsaw.

Waivers and exceptions are limited:

Interview waivers are now sharply restricted, and only a few visa categories, like A, G, C-2, C-3, diplomatic or UN-related visas, are exempt. Rare exceptions may be granted on humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy grounds.

Existing appointments generally safe:

If you already have a scheduled appointment abroad, it’s likely to remain valid. Just ensure any future scheduling follows the new rule.

Why This Matters

For Travelers

No more flexibility to reapply in locations like Thailand, Germany, or Mexico. If you're an Indian student or visitor, for example, you're now required to apply within India, no longer able to bypass long waitlists abroad.

For Employers and Institutions

This rule significantly impacts international organizations managing global mobility. Applicants must factor in wait times, travel budgets, and limited flexibility when planning visa renewals or new applications.

For Visas Office Operations

The policy aims to promote fairness and consistency. Applications are now processed by offices familiar with local documentation and applicant backgrounds, supporting more streamlined and secure decision-making.