The US Department of State has introduced a new policy for non-immigrant visa applicants. From now on, applicants must attend their interviews at the US Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.

This directive, which took effect on September 6, 2025, was published on the official US visa website and cancels all earlier instructions about designated processing locations.

The policy also applies to nationals of countries where the US does not run regular visa services. Such applicants are required to use specific embassies or consulates.

For example, Afghans must apply in Islamabad, Belarusians in Vilnius or Warsaw, Cubans in Georgetown, Iranians in Dubai, Russians in Astana or Warsaw, Venezuelans in Bogota, and Yemenis in Riyadh.

The Department highlighted three major points for applicants. First, applicants must show proof of residence in the country where they are applying.

Second, those who try to schedule interviews outside their country of residence or nationality may find it harder to qualify, and visa fees in such cases will not be refunded or transferred.

Third, those applying outside their home country should expect longer wait times for appointments.

For people who already have appointments, the Department confirmed that most will not be cancelled. The new policy also does not affect diplomatic, NATO, or UN-related visas.

Exceptions may still be made for emergencies, such as humanitarian or medical cases, as well as for foreign policy reasons.

Officials explained that the change is meant to make visa processing faster, manage global backlogs, and strengthen security measures.

This new policy will especially affect Nigerians. In the past, many Nigerians turned to consulates in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, Namibia, Ivory Coast, Canada, or even the Dominican Republic whenever Abuja or Lagos had long waiting times.

Now, Nigerians must apply only in Nigeria, a change that could make the process more challenging due to the already heavy demand.