The U.S. has tightened its visa renewal rules by reducing the eligibility period for the Visa Interview Waiver from 48 months to just 12 months. Only those whose visas expired within the past year can renew without an in-person interview, significantly limiting the number of applicants who qualify for the streamlined process. As a result, many nonimmigrant visa holders—including H-1B workers and B1/B2 business and tourist travelers—will now be required to attend in-person interviews, which could lead to longer appointment wait times and increased travel planning challenges.
For corporate travel managers, this shift adds another layer of complexity to international travel logistics. Employees who previously relied on the dropbox renewal process may now face significant delays, potentially disrupting business operations, assignments, and meetings. With appointment backlogs already an issue at many U.S. consulates, companies should prepare for extended processing times and proactively support employees navigating these changes. Understanding these new regulations and adjusting travel policies accordingly will be key to minimizing disruptions and ensuring smooth mobility for business travelers.
Navigating these new visa renewal challenges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. G3’s visa experts help you understand the latest regulations, streamline the application process, and minimize travel disruptions for your employees. Schedule a call with our team today to get personalized guidance and proactive solutions tailored to your company’s travel needs. Don’t let visa delays impact your business—book a consultation now!