New restrictions on visa processing

2 MAJOR updates to the US visa process just dropped, and they're making the visa application process more RESTRICTIVE on applicants.

1. As of September 2, most visa categories now require in-person interviews at U.S. consulates. Previously, many applicants could qualify for an interview waiver.

2. The Department of State announced that nonimmigrant visa applicants must apply in their country of nationality or residence only.

This ends the pandemic-era flexibility that allowed "third-country national" applications, where people could apply from countries other than their own.

What do these updates actually mean?

- Students who planned to apply during breaks in more convenient locations need to rethink

- Business travelers face additional logistical hurdles

- A foreign national renewing their work visa now has the stress of preparing for an in-person interview at the Consulate (when they would have previously just submitted their documents for a visa renewal)

For many of my clients, this is a significant setback. 

I just spoke with a tech executive who's been working in Europe but is from South America. 

He was planning to apply in London next month since appointments in his home country are backlogged by 6+ months.

Now, he has no choice but to return home and wait, potentially delaying his US project significantly.

These changes will effectively limit visa issuance and create additional hurdles.

In my experience handling immigration cases across various fields, I've seen how even small procedural changes can have massive impacts on people's lives and careers.

For clients in time-sensitive industries like film and television (where I handle many cases), these restrictions could mean missing production deadlines or losing opportunities.

What should you do if you're affected?

- Check if you qualify for any exceptions

- Build extra time into your immigration planning

- Consider consulting with an attorney to develop a strategy

- If you already have an appointment in a third country, check if it will be honored

The rules are changing rapidly, and what worked last month might not work today.

Working with a knowledgeable immigration attorney is more crucial than ever. 

I've guided clients through shifting immigration policies for years, and while these new restrictions are frustrating, there are always ways to adapt your strategy.