United States (US) has made changes to non-immigrant visa applicants in most categories.

US said those who are required to renew their visas are required to physically attend the interview with a consular officer.

In a statement posted on the US Embassy Uganda X official account on December 14th, 2025, US said this move will end waivers that previously applied to renewal.

“Non-immigrant visa applicants in most visa categories, including those who are renewing, are now required to attend an in-person interview with a consular officer,” read part notice.

Changes in the US Visa Rules

These new changes apply to all categories of non-immigrant visa, which include tourist B1/B2, student F-1, and worker H-1B.

Also Read: US Lists 6 Things You Can Do With a B1 & B2 Visitor Visa

Initially, Russians could make an appointment at any convenient US consulate abroad. Now the choice is limited to two cities.

The State Department published an official list of designated consulates for countries where US diplomatic services are operating in a limited mode.

Meanwhile, the government agency said, “Existing nonimmigrant visa appointments are generally not cancelled.”

However, the government asserted that the new applications are accepted only under the updated rules.

Also Read: Visa Applications In 2026: What You Need And How To Apply

Stats of US Visa Performance

In August 2025, the State Department the waiting time for an interview in Astana was 2 months for tourist visas, in Warsaw, for only 1 month, but that was before the innovations.

The demand for American visas among Russians is already growing.

According to travel agencies, applications increased by 20% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Additionally, all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including applicants under the age of 14 and over the age of 79, will generally require an in-person interview with a consular officer.

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U.S. President Donald Trump file image. PHOTO/C