Heads Up, Travelers: U.S. to Scrap ‘Drop-Box’ Visa Renewals for 57 Countries in September 2025

Starting September 2, 2025, travelers from 57 countries will no longer be able to renew their U.S. visas via the 'drop-box' interview waiver. Here’s how this upcoming change could alter your travel plans and shake up the tourism industry.

Big Change Coming for U.S. Visa Renewals

If you’ve breezed through the U.S. visa process in recent years thanks to the handy ‘drop-box’ renewal system, a new policy launching September 2, 2025 might catch you off guard. The U.S. State Department plans to end this system for 57 countries, meaning travelers will be required to show up for in-person interviews to renew their nonimmigrant visas—even if they’ve visited before.

What’s Changing?

In-person interviews return: Everyone—from tourists to students—will need to attend an embassy or consulate appointment for visa processing.
No more interview waivers: The previous ‘drop-box’ renewals (where you skipped the interview if you met certain criteria) will no longer apply.

What Might This Mean for Travelers?

Longer waits: Be ready for longer processing times. Scheduling an interview and waiting for approval could add weeks to your plans.
Extra costs: Traveling to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, booking hotels, and potentially taking time off work may increase your expenses.
More planning needed: Especially in countries with few U.S. consulates, getting an appointment could be challenging.

Why Is This Happening?

The analysis suggests this move aims to beef up security by taking a closer, in-person look at every applicant. It’s seen as a way to make sure all visa requests are vetted thoroughly.

How Could the Travel Industry React?

Possible dip in visitors: With more hassle and cost, fewer tourists from the affected countries may visit the U.S., which could be tough on airlines, hotels, and attractions.
Travel agencies step up: Agencies and visa consultants might ramp up their services to help travelers navigate the new process smoothly.

Looking Forward: This change isn't set in stone forever—if the negative impacts outweigh the security gains, further tweaks to the policy could come in the future. For now, travelers and the tourism industry will need to adapt.

So, if a U.S. trip is on your bucket list after September 2025, start planning early—and keep an eye on how these policy shifts evolve.