As of September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) has tightened the rules on where nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants can apply.

What’s new:
All NIV applicants must now schedule their interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or current residence. Applying in a third country is no longer allowed, except in very limited cases.

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Why it matters:

• This ends the long-standing practice of potential “visa hopping,” where applicants would apply in a third country to avoid long wait times or longer travel.
• Applicants must show proof of residence if applying outside their country of nationality.
• Visa fees are non-refundable and non-transferable if you try to apply outside your designated country.
• Exceptions exist for humanitarian, medical, or urgent foreign-policy reasons, but they’re rare.

Takeaway: Plan ahead and expect longer wait times at home-country consulates. If your team has foreign nationals with travel or renewal needs, factor this into planning right away.