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Interview Requirement For Almost All Applicants
As of September 2, 2025, the in-person interview has become mandatory for almost all non-immigrant visa applicants, regardless of age.
Previously, applicants under 14 years old and over 79 were exempt from the interview. However, this exemption no longer applies as of this specific date.
Exemption remains for some B-1/B-2 visa renewals, provided they have expired less than 12 months ago.
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The previous visa was issued when the applicant was at least 18 years old.
The person must apply in the country where they reside or have nationality.
There cannot be any apparent ineligibility or prior denial.
The specialized lawyer explained these conditions in a report from CNN Brazil and the portal Melhores Destinos.
New Requirements Regarding Social Media and the “Visa Integrity Fee”
Starting September 2, applicants in categories F (students), M (vocational), and J (exchange) must maintain open social media profiles for consular evaluation.
In June 2025, the State Department mandated in-person review of social media for F, M, and J visas.
The goal is to verify possible ties to anti-American or terrorist organizations, according to an analysis published by The Guardian.
Since 2019, DS-160 forms have required disclosure of social media used in the past five years, as reported by Greenheart.
Substantial Increase in Cost With New Integrity Fee
Also part of the measures is the addition of US$ 250 for the “Visa Integrity Fee”. Furthermore, the charge will only occur if the visa is approved, at the time of issuance.
As a result, the total cost of the visa will reach around US$ 435, as it includes the consular fee of US$ 185 and the I-94 fee of US$ 24.
Additionally, this fee is part of the One Big Beautiful Bill package, approved in July 2025, and therefore has official status and is already in effect.
Similarly, it applies to tourists, students, exchange participants, and temporary workers, particularly from countries that are outside the visa waiver program.
Finally, the fee may be refundable, as long as the applicant fully meets the terms of the visa, as indicated by the publication from Condé Nast Traveler.
Summary of Main Changes
- Mandatory In-Person Interview starting September 2, 2025, for almost all applicants.
- Interview Renewal Waived only in specific cases and under strict conditions.
- Social Media Must Be Open (Public) for analysis of F, M, and J applicants.
- Additional Fee of US$ 250 (“Visa Integrity Fee”) takes effect on October 1, 2025. The total cost of the visa rises to about US$ 435.
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