In a significant shift affecting H-1B visa holders and other work visa applicants, the U.S. government has quietly rolled back the visa interview waiver eligibility (“Dropbox”) from 48 months to just 12 months.
This change, though not officially announced by the Department of State (DOS) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has been confirmed in practice and by multiple sources.
Key Changes & Implications:
- Previously: Dropbox eligibility was extended to applicants whose prior visa had expired within 48 months, making the renewal process easier and reducing backlogs.
- Now: To qualify for Dropbox processing, a prior visa must have expired within just 12 months.
H-1B & Other Affected Visa Holders:
- Those who scheduled Dropbox appointments under the old 48-month rule must now cancel if they no longer meet the 12-month requirement.
- Individuals changing status (e.g., from F-1 or H-4 to H-1B) remain ineligible for Dropbox and will require in-person visa interviews.
- The lack of official DOS guidance means applicants should double-check eligibility before assuming they qualify.
What This Means for Employers & Foreign Workers:
🚨 Potential Visa Renewal Delays – With fewer applicants eligible for Dropbox, more visa holders will need in-person consular interviews, leading to longer wait times at U.S. consulates.
☘️ Plan Ahead – If your employees need to travel internationally, ensure they are aware of the new eligibility rules and allow for additional time to schedule interviews.
🔎 Monitor for Official Guidance – Since DOS has yet to issue a formal announcement, stay informed about any updates or policy clarifications.
If you or your employees have questions about this change and its impact on work visas, we’re here to help!
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