Applying for a US visa soon? Key updates every applicant must know

Individuals applying for a US visa will face several new requirements and fees, as authorities tighten screening and have introduced changes in application procedures. Between June and October, the US government has introduced measures that include stricter social media checks, a new visa integrity fee, reduced interview waivers, and changes to passport collection procedures. These updates reflect a return to pre-pandemic consular practices, emphasising security and compliance.

Proposal of ‘fixed stay period’ for international students, media professionals & cultural exchange visitors
The Trump administration recently proposed new regulations to limit the duration of visas for international students, cultural exchange visitors, and media professionals. Under the proposed rule, F visas for students and J visas for exchange workers would be capped at four years, while I visas for journalists would be limited to 240 days, or 90 days for Chinese nationals. Visa holders could apply for extensions once their visas expire. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the new rule aims to help the government "monitor and oversee" visa holders while they are in the United States. The public has 30 days to comment on the proposed regulation. A similar plan was introduced in 2020 but withdrawn in 2021 by the Biden administration after opposition from NAFSA, a non-profit representing international educators. The Trump administration has also recently increased scrutiny of legal immigration, including revoking student visas and green cards over ideological views.

Passport collection changes for Indian Applicants
Effective from August 2025, the US Embassy in New Delhi will no longer allow third-party collection of passports for visa applicants. All applicants must collect their passports in person from the embassy or consulate. For applicants under 18, a parent or legal guardian may collect the documents with an original consent letter signed by both parents. Scanned or emailed copies will not be accepted. To provide convenience, the embassy is offering a paid home or office delivery service at Rs1,200 per applicant.

Stricter visa interview waivers from September 2025
From September 2, 2025, the US Department of State will limit eligibility for interview waivers. Most non-immigrant visa applicants will now need to appear in person before a consular officer. Only a narrow set of exemptions, such as certain diplomats or foreign officials, will continue to benefit from waiver privileges. Applicants renewing full-validity B1, B2, or B1/B2 visas may qualify for a waiver if they apply in their country of nationality or residence, have never been refused a visa, and show no apparent ineligibility. Consular officers retain the right to request interviews on a case-by-case basis, even if applicants meet waiver criteria.

New $250 visa integrity fee from October 2025
Starting October 2025, a $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” will apply to all non-immigrant visas for visitors from countries not on the US visa waiver list, including India. This fee is in addition to other visa-related charges such as reciprocity fees, anti-fraud fees, and MRV application fees. For Indian applicants, total costs for student or work visas, including F, J, and H categories, will average $473. Business and tourist visas (B1/B2) will cost approximately $425. The Department of Homeland Security may reimburse the fee for visitors who fully comply with visa conditions, including departing the US on time or changing status legally.

These changes signal a significant shift in US visa processing for Indian travellers, emphasizing increased scrutiny, higher costs, and stricter compliance measures. Applicants planning to study, work, or visit the US should prepare for longer processing times and ensure all documentation is accurate and complete.