Immigrant Visa Interviews Must Take Place in Your Country of Residence: Effective Nov. 1, 2025

The U.S. Department of State has announced a significant policy shift: Starting November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa interviews will be scheduled in the applicant’s country of residence, or—if requested and approved—in the applicant’s country of nationality.

This applies to employment, family, and Diversity Visa (DV-2026) applicants alike. Interviews at third-country consulates will now require special authorization and proof of compelling circumstances.

What Has Changed?

Effective November 1, 2025, the National Visa Center (NVC) will:

• Schedule immigrant visa interviews at consular posts located in the applicant’s country of residence.
• Accept requests for interviews in the applicant’s country of nationality—but only with supporting documentation.
• Discontinue allowing applicants to choose third countries for interviews, unless specifically authorized due to extraordinary circumstances.

This is a tightening of long-standing policy, not an entirely new rule — but the enforcement will now be stricter and more consistent.

The End of “Forum Shopping”

In recent years, it became common for applicants to seek interviews at consulates in countries with shorter wait times. While understandable, this created inefficiencies and inequities in the process.

Now, unless you reside in that country—or can prove special eligibility—you won’t be able to schedule your interview there.

What If My Country Doesn’t Offer Visa Services?

For applicants living in countries with suspended or limited visa operations, the Department of State has designated specific processing posts. Below is a sampling of countries and their corresponding designated consulates:

This list is not exhaustive. We recommend reviewing the full guidance on the U.S. State Department website or speaking with an immigration attorney before making any assumptions.

Key Considerations for Applicants

1. Existing Appointments Will Be Honored

If you already have an appointment scheduled in a third country, it likely will not be canceled. However, do not assume this policy won’t affect future requests.

2. Transfers Must Go Through the NVC

If you need to transfer your case to another consular post, you must contact the NVC directly, not the embassy or consulate.

3. Residence Must Be Proven

Requests for interviews outside your country of residence will be scrutinized. Expect to submit evidence of residency, such as:

• Valid visas or permits
• Lease agreements
• Utility bills
• Employment letters

4. Limited Exceptions Exist

Humanitarian emergencies, urgent medical cases, or compelling foreign policy reasons may qualify for an exception—but they are rare and must be supported by robust documentation.

5. Applies to Diversity Visa (DV-2026) Applicants

This policy also applies to winners of the DV-2026 green card lottery, many of whom must act within tight timeframes.

What This Means for Our Clients

This policy reinforces the State Department’s goal of restoring order and fairness in the immigrant visa process. But it may also introduce delays and confusion for applicants unaware of these new restrictions.

As immigration attorneys with deep experience in consular processing, we advise taking the following proactive steps:

• Confirm the consular post assigned to your case.
• Avoid making travel plans until your appointment is confirmed.
• Contact the NVC early if you need to request a post change.
• Consult with qualified legal counsel to explore whether an exception may apply.

How VKM Law Group Can Help

At VKM Law Group, we offer end-to-end immigration support including:

• Case strategy based on current Department of State guidelines.
• NVC communications and post transfer requests.
• Residency documentation review and exception request preparation.
• Interview prep tailored to the assigned consulate’s procedures.

From our office in New Jersey, we serve clients across the U.S. and abroad.

With the holiday season approaching and interview slots tightening, we recommend initiating your application or transfer request as soon as possible. The more time we have to prepare, the smoother your process will be.

Immigration is personal — and policies like this one highlight the importance of accuracy, timing, and strategic planning. A small oversight could delay your case for months.

If you’re unsure how this update applies to you or need help shifting your visa strategy, contact VKM Law Group today. We’re here to protect your future.