Author Archives: Ann Lee

August 6, 2025

Department of State Narrows Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Waiver Eligibility

Ann Lee

Ann Lee

By Ann Lee

Beginning on September 2, 2025, U.S. consulates will implement a more restrictive version of the nonimmigrant visa (NIV) interview waiver (IW) program. The IW program is also commonly referred to as “drop box” visa appointments, which allows applicants to renew visa applications without an in-person interview. The Department of State announced the new restrictions on July 25, 2025 (IW Update).

Background

In February 2025, the Department of State (DOS) significantly scaled back the COVID-era expanded IW program, which had allowed waivers for applicants whose prior visa in the same classification expired within 48 months, and in some cases, for first-time visa applicants. The February revision limited eligibility to applicants renewing a visa in the same category that was still valid or had expired within the past 12 months. Under the IW Update, the circumstances when interviews will be waived  will narrow even further. Read more >>

April 10, 2024

USCIS Announces New Guidance on the Validity Period for Form I-693 Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

Ann Lee

Ann Lee

by Ann Lee

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently announced a significant update regarding Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Effective immediately, any Form I-693 that has been properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, will no longer have an expiration date. This means that such forms can now be used indefinitely as evidence to demonstrate that the applicant is not inadmissible on health-related grounds.

This decision by USCIS follows careful consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and takes into account advancements in public health electronic notification systems. However, USCIS officers have reserved discretion to request more evidence or a new or updated Form I-693 if they have reason to believe the applicant’s medical condition has changed since the civil surgeon signed the Form I-693, or that the Form I-693 submitted does not accurately reflect the applicant’s medical condition and the applicant may be inadmissible on health-related grounds. Read more >>