U.S. Updates Visa Interview Waiver Rules; Antigua and Barbuda Nationals Still Required to Attend Interviews

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U.S. Updates Visa Interview Waiver Rules; Antigua and Barbuda Nationals Still Required to Attend Interviews
U.S. Updates Visa Interview Waiver Rules; Antigua and Barbuda Nationals Still Required to Attend Interviews

The U.S. Department of State has announced changes to the categories of applicants eligible for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview.

While certain diplomats, officials, and travelers renewing specific visas from select countries may qualify for an interview waiver, nationals of Antigua and Barbuda remain required to attend an in-person interview.

Under the updated rules, applicants generally must attend an interview unless they fall under categories such as diplomatic or official visas, or are renewing certain B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visas within 12 months of expiration and meet other eligibility criteria.

Eligible travelers must be citizens or legal residents of approved countries and have no prior visa refusals or disqualifications.

However, Antigua and Barbuda nationals—including those seeking visa renewals are not included in the waiver program and must meet with a consular officer in person.

The Department of State also notes that consular officers may require interviews on a case-by-case basis for any applicant.

Applicants are encouraged to consult U.S. embassy or consulate websites for detailed application requirements, procedures, and current operating statuses.

See full report below:

https://bb.usembassy.gov/renewal-interview-waiver-2/

This story was first published by Antigua News on September 2, 2025: antigua.news/2025/09/02/u-s-updates-visa-interview-waiver-rules-antigua-and-barbuda-nationals-still-required-to-attend-interviews. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (12)

  • Juju Bee September 2, 2025, 9:47 AM

    Thank God I got my visa renewed during Covid when they were not requiring in person visits
    Reply
  • Misaylana September 2, 2025, 10:00 AM

    The US continues to make it more difficult for people to go there. And seriously. I keep saying, who the heck wanna go to stinking USA? People . THe grass is not greener there.
    Reply
    • Eyeswideshut September 2, 2025, 10:03 AM

      The US is a shithole. Trump says we are shithole countries. I believe he was speaking of his pathetic country.
      Reply
  • Boss lady September 2, 2025, 10:29 AM

    My thing what can’t a group from the embassy come here and other countries to conduct the interviews..make it much easier financially on many of us…a mean gng there the visa is still not guaranteed….
    #easydoesit
    #eachonehelpone..
    Reply
  • Richard September 2, 2025, 11:29 AM

    So even for renewals, Antigua and Barbuda nationals still have to go in person? That’s going to be tricky for some people living far from the embassy.
    Reply
  • Genique September 2, 2025, 11:29 AM

    Makes sense that diplomats get a waiver, but it feels unfair for regular citizens. At least we know the rules clearly now.
    Reply
  • Ben Simmons September 2, 2025, 11:42 AM

    If people see the beauty of the world they won’t care about USA
    Reply
    • Jah T September 3, 2025, 7:47 AM

      Facts. Last time I traveled to the US was the April before 911 and I have never been back, except for the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. I have been to every island in the Caribbean, the UK and a few countries in Europe since
      Reply
    • PeterC September 5, 2025, 7:49 AM

      Exactly!
      Reply
  • Beverly Anthony September 2, 2025, 4:10 PM

    The US has every right it what they are doing. Too many people wanna go there and saturate the people place. Tap in your country
    Reply
  • Jimmy September 2, 2025, 6:36 PM

    I just returned from the US. Nothing to waw about
    Reply
  • Informed citizen September 2, 2025, 10:15 PM

    Why not trust our people the same way you trust nationals from bigger countries? Discrimination much?
    Reply

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