DOS Ends Third-Country Nonimmigrant Visa Appointments

On September 6, 2025, the Department of State (DOS) announced that nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants generally must schedule their appointments at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence. Third-country visa appointment scheduling is generally no longer permitted, with limited exceptions. Applicants must be able to demonstrate legal residence in the country where they are applying, if eligibility is based on residency.

DOS updated instructions on its website over the weekend accordingly. Applicants with existing NIV appointments that were scheduled before the September 6 update will generally not be canceled, but going forward, applicants who apply outside their country of nationality or residence “might find it more difficult to qualify for the visa,” DOS said, and visa fees will not be refunded or transferred. Applicants who need to apply outside their country of nationality or residence should expect longer wait times. Nationals of countries without routine NIV operations must apply at a designated U.S. embassy or consulate as listed in the chart on the DOS website.

DOS outlined exceptions for applicants seeking A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO visas, diplomatic/official visas, or travel under the UN Headquarters Agreement. Limited exceptions may also apply for humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy reasons.

This is posting is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. If you require further assistance or advice relating to the above, If you require further assistance or advice relating to the above, please contact our Managing Partner, Janice Flynn at janice@flynnhodkinson.com.