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ARTICLE · 10 JANUARY 2022

Visa Applications: Waiver Of Interviews

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney
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On December 23, 2021, the Secretary of State authorized consular offices through December 31, 2022, to waive in-person interview requirements for certain nonimmigrant visa applicants.

United StatesImmigration
Dilip Patel
Dilip Patel
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On December 23, 2021, the Secretary of State authorized consular offices through December 31, 2022, to waive in-person interview requirements for certain nonimmigrant visa applicants.

Who is covered under the expanded authorization?

Newly Covered Visa Types

The new authorization applies to those applying for H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visas who are applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence. Consular officers have the discretion to waive the interview requirement for individuals applying for these visa types that were previously issued any type of visa. Applicants that have been refused a visa in the past do not qualify unless that refusal was overcome or waived, and there should be no apparent or potential ineligibility. Consular officers also have the discretion to waive the interview requirement for those applying for H-1, H-2, H-4, L, O, P, and Q visas for the first time who are citizens of a VWP participating country if there is no

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