Heads-Up, Travelers: Big Changes Coming to U.S. Visa Renewals in 2025

Starting September 2025, travelers from 57 countries will lose the convenient U.S. visa 'drop-box' renewal option, facing in-person interviews and extra costs. Here’s what you need to know and how it could impact your travel plans.

Say Goodbye to the Visa ‘Drop-Box’

Got plans to travel or renew your U.S. visa after September 2, 2025? There’s a major change on the horizon you’ll want to know about. The U.S. State Department is ending its ‘drop-box’ visa waiver system for 57 countries—a service that’s been a lifesaver for many travelers, students, and businesspeople.

What’s Actually Changing?

No more skipping the lines: Starting September 2025, you can’t just mail in your application and breeze through a renewal or apply for certain visas from those select countries. Everyone will need to show up in person at the U.S. consulate for an interview.
More time, more money: Be ready for longer wait times and higher costs—think travel to the consulate, possible hotel stays, and maybe even time off work.

Why Make Things Harder?

The goal, according to officials, is to beef up national security. Meeting face-to-face with applicants is seen as a more thorough way to vet people before letting them in. Some even say interviewing in person could help explain your case or intentions, possibly making approvals a little easier for well-prepared travelers.

But That’s Not All—Other Fees Are Going Up

Visa Integrity Fee: For non-waiver countries, a new $250 fee is coming in October 2025.
ESTA nearly doubled: If you’re from a Visa Waiver country, the ESTA fee is jumping from $21 to $40.

What’s This Mean for Travel?

If you’re planning a U.S. trip or have business, study, or family commitments there, it’s wise to keep close tabs on these updates. They might mean more paperwork, planning, and budgeting. While some say these changes boost security, there’s concern it could slow down travel and tourism, or even put off potential visitors.

Bottom line: Stay informed, plan ahead, and prepare for a more hands-on visa process after September 2025.

Source: Reuters