The US Embassy and the Consulates in China are pleased to inform you that Interview Waiver will resume. You can submit your application at a CITIC bank location starting Friday November 5.

Secretary Blinken, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security, has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification. Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 24 months were eligible for an interview waiver. The Secretary has temporarily extended the expiration period to 48 months. This policy is in effect until December 31, 2021. This change will allow consular officers to continue processing certain nonimmigrant visa applications while limiting the number of applicants who must appear at a consular section, thereby reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission to other applicants and consular staff. Travelers are encouraged to review the website of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for detailed information on what services are currently available as well as eligibility information and instructions on applying for a visa without an interview.

Previously, applicants renewing a prior U.S. visa that is still valid or expired within 12 months may be eligible for an interview waiver. The expiration period of 12 months has been temporarily extended to 48 months and this policy is in effect until December 31, 2021.

Important Note: The use of the interview waiver service does not guarantee visa issuance. In some cases, applicants may still be required to appear for an in-person visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates.