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The United States has made a significant change to its visa interview waiver program, commonly known as the Dropbox process. The eligibility window has been shortened from 48 months to 12 months, affecting thousands of non-immigrant visa holders, including those on H-1B, F-1, B1/B2, L-1, and O-1 visas.
Key Change in Visa Renewal Policy
Previously, applicants could renew their visas via the Dropbox system if their prior visa had expired within 48 months. This extended policy was introduced during the pandemic to reduce backlogs at US consulates. Now, under the new rule, only those whose visas have expired within the past 12 months are eligible for an interview waiver. Others must undergo an in-person interview, potentially increasing appointment wait times.
Who Will Be Affected?
According to The National Law Review, this policy shift could lead to delays and disruptions for:
- H-1B visa holders – Skilled professionals working in specialized fields.
- F-1 visa holders – International students studying in the US.
- B1/B2 visa holders – Short-term business and tourism travelers.
- L-1 visa holders – Multinational employees transferring to US offices.
- O-1 visa holders – Individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, arts, and business.
Implications of the Change
Applicants now qualify for Dropbox processing only if:
- Their visa expired within the last 12 months.
- They are applying for a visa in the same category.
If they do not meet these criteria, they must book an in-person interview, which may result in:
- Increased demand for interview slots at US consulates.
- Longer visa processing times, especially in high-demand cities.
- Travel disruptions for business professionals and students needing swift renewals.
Impact on Indian Students in the US
With international education demand surging, the new rule could pose challenges for Indian students. Siddharth Iyer, COO at OneStep Global, notes that this shift represents a return to pre-pandemic regulations, but students outside the new 12-month window may experience longer wait times.
“While this aims to streamline processing, affected students should plan ahead, track policy updates, and consult their university’s international office or visa experts for guidance,” said Iyer.
Visa Appointment Delays in India
Securing a visa appointment in India has already been a challenge. In 2022, the wait time for a B1/B2 visa interview surpassed 999 days. Though it has since improved, delays persist:
- Delhi & Mumbai: Over 440 days
- Chennai: 436 days
- Hyderabad: 429 days
- Kolkata: 415 days
Why Is the US Making This Change?
In response to Business Standard’s queries, the US Embassy in Delhi stated that the US Department of State is conducting a full review of visa programs under Executive Order 14161.
Signed on January 20, 2025, by US President Donald Trump, the order, titled “Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats,” mandates a comprehensive assessment of visa policies. It reinstates elements from previous Trump-era immigration policies and emphasizes stricter security measures.
Key Focus Areas of Executive Order 14161:
- Identifying high-risk countries for potential travel restrictions.
- Strengthening refugee screening processes.
- Evaluating visa programs for security vulnerabilities.
- Enhancing oversight of foreign nationals in the US.
- Implementing policies to encourage immigrant assimilation.
Final Thoughts
The 12-month eligibility reduction for visa interview waivers is a significant shift that could increase wait times and cause disruptions for many non-immigrant visa holders. While it aims to enhance security, travelers and students should plan visa renewals well in advance, stay updated on policy changes, and explore alternatives to avoid unexpected delays.
