Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. government will end its popular 'drop-box' visa renewal option for travelers from 57 countries. Everyone now needs an in-person interview, leading to longer waits and higher costs. Here’s what this could mean for travelers, hotel bookings, and the broader tourism scene.
September 8, 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