The US extends the interview waiver to students and temporary workers enrolled in study abroad programs.

According to a press conference, the United States Department has made a proper determination to extend the consul officer’s authority to waive interviews for certain non-immigrant visa categories. The implementation will take place in 2023. As a result, international students will be able to study abroad in the United States. 

Among the types of visas included in this criteria are H-2 visas, Academic Exchange Visitors visas, Student visas, as well as certain specific beneficiaries of temporary workers visa petitions, including persons in special occupations, trainees and special education students, interns, performers, artists, athletes, and entertainers.  

As a result of discussions with the Department of Homeland Security, the Secretary of State authorized these waivers. This specific authorization to waive the in-person interview for non-immigrant applicants will remain in effect until further notice. A press conference was also held by the United States Department of State regarding this matter. 

By paying close attention to the in-person visa interview process for those applicants who need an interview to enter the United States, the authorities, who are responsible for the interview waiver, have reduced the wait times for the visa application process at many consulates and embassies. 

Approximately half of the seven million non-immigrant visa applications issued by the United States Department in Fiscal Year 2022 were processed without an in-person interview. 

They have also reduced wait times for all international students’ visas, according to the release. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of Education has made every effort to reduce international student wait times drastically.