New DOS Policy Requires Immigrant Visa Applicants to Interview in Their Country of Residence or Nationality

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced a significant policy change that will impact where immigrant visa applicants are interviewed. Beginning November 1, 2025, applicants must attend their visa interview in the consular district corresponding to their place of residence, or, if they prefer, in their country of nationality.

This policy aims to streamline processing and ensure that interviews take place in the most appropriate location based on where applicants live. However, DOS noted that there will be limited exceptions to this rule.

What Applicants Need to Know

1. Where to Apply:

Applicants should apply for their immigrant visa in the consular district that serves their country or area of residence. Those who live in countries where routine visa services are currently suspended or paused should apply at the designated immigrant visa processing post for that country—unless the applicant is a national of another country where visa services are still operating. The DOS has published a list of designated processing posts for such situations.

2. Existing Appointments:

If you already have an immigrant visa appointment, don’t worry—your appointment will generally not be rescheduled or canceled due to this new policy.

3. Transferring a Case:

Applicants who wish to transfer their immigrant visa case to a new consular district after their appointment has been scheduled should contact the National Visa Center (NVC) directly using the Public Inquiry Form. Applicants should not contact the consular post directly to request a transfer.

4. Residence Requirement and Exceptions:

If you request an interview location outside your assigned consular district or country of nationality, the NVC may require proof of residence or additional information before approving the request.
Exceptions will only be made in rare circumstances, such as humanitarian emergencies, medical reasons, or important foreign policy considerations.

5. Diversity Visa Applicants:

This new policy also applies to Diversity Visa applicants beginning with the DV-2026 program year.

Why This Matters

This change underscores the Department of State’s effort to increase consistency and accountability in visa processing worldwide. For applicants, it means planning ahead is more important than ever—particularly for those living outside their country of nationality or in places where U.S. consular services are limited.

How Joseph & Hall P.C. Can Help

If you or a loved one are applying for an immigrant visa and are unsure where your case should be processed, our immigration attorneys can help you determine your correct consular district, navigate transfer requests, and prepare for your interview.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your case proceeds smoothly under the new DOS policy.