Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. will require travelers from 57 countries to attend in-person interviews for visa renewals, ending the convenient 'drop-box' system. This move might slow down travel plans and increase costs, but there's more to the story. Here’s what globetrotters need to know about making future trips to the States.
September 13, 2025Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. State Department plans to end the convenient ‘drop-box’ or Interview Waiver Program for visa renewals in 57 countries. Travelers from these countries—including Afghanistan, Cuba, Egypt, Iran, and Venezuela—will soon need to attend in-person interviews for U.S. visas, a change expected to bring longer processing times, higher costs, and hassles for tourists and businesses alike. While officials say the goal is better security and consistency, the travel industry could feel the pinch.
September 6, 2025