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Starting October, the U.S. Ends Age-Based Interview Waiver for American Visas. Almost All Applicants, Including Children and Seniors, Will Have to Appear In-Person
The process for obtaining an American visa will change significantly starting October 1, 2025.
The U.S. State Department announced that age will no longer be a factor for interview waivers, a measure that has benefited those under 14 and over 79 for years.
From now on, practically all non-immigrant visa applicants will have to go through in-person interviews at embassies or consulates, regardless of age.
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End of Age Waiver and Restricted Exemptions
This decision marks a reversal of the flexibility adopted during the pandemic, when the U.S. government expanded the possibility of interview waivers to reduce waiting times and facilitate the resumption of international travel.
Under the new scenario, only a few groups will remain eligible for waivers, including diplomats, holders of official visas, and certain applicants renewing tourist and business visas (B-1/B-2).
Even in these cases, eligibility depends on strict conditions, such as the validity of the previous issuance, expiration date, and the applicant’s history.
Additionally, authorities make it clear that they can call the applicant for an interview at any time during the process.
Impact on Brazilians and Increased Demand
The change directly impacts Brazilians, as the country is among the top applicants for B-1/B-2 visas in the world.
With the resumption of interview requirements, experts predict longer lines at consulates in cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, which already experience high demand.
Law firms and immigration consultancy offices explain that students, temporary workers, and exchange students, who in some cases still managed to obtain waivers, will need to prepare to schedule interviews, gathering documents and anticipating potential delays in processing times.
Reasons Given by the U.S.
According to the State Department, the goal is to reinforce the security of the process, returning to a pre-pandemic standard.
The in-person evaluation, according to authorities, continues to be the most reliable way to verify eligibility and the accuracy of the information presented by applicants.
Although the United States has not indicated a direct link to recent events, analysts point out that increasing global tensions and the need for greater control over migration flows may have accelerated the revision of the rules.
Additional Costs and Next Steps
Besides the interviews, there is a discussion in Washington about creating a new fee called “visa integrity fee,” which could cost an additional $250 per application.
Although it is still in the implementation phase, the charge would be adjusted annually and represent an extra burden beyond the traditional consular fee, further affecting the wallets of Brazilian travelers.
For specialists, this possible change reflects the U.S. government’s effort to fund stricter security and enforcement measures.
Official Recommendations
The State Department recommends that all applicants consult the websites of embassies and consulates before starting the process, as each jurisdiction may apply specific interpretations of the rule.
Even those who theoretically fall under categories exempt from interviews should be prepared to appear in person if summoned. The recommendation is clear: plan ahead, prepare complete documentation, and constantly monitor official updates.
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