Stay up to date on U.S. embassy and consulate visa operations around the world.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread suspensions of U.S. visa services globally. Today, most U.S. embassies and consulates have resumed some or all immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments, though rules and timelines vary by country. Below is the latest status update.
Important Policy Updates:
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Effective June 18, 2025: Applicants for F, M, or J nonimmigrant visas must set all social media accounts to “public” to allow vetting.
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Effective June 9, 2025: A federal travel ban restricts or prohibits visa issuance to nationals of certain countries. See our travel ban resource for details.
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Effective May 2, 2025: DS-160 forms must be submitted at least two business days before interviews, and the confirmation barcode must match the scheduled appointment.
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Effective March 11, 2025: COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for immigrant visa applicants.
Visa Services by Country
Brazil
All routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa services have resumed. Applicants must bring all original documents; otherwise, interviews will be rescheduled.
Canada
Most nonimmigrant visa services and U.S. citizen services are available.
China
Routine consular services have resumed. Guangzhou remains the only immigrant visa processing center. As of June 10, 2025, all applicants under 14 must attend interviews in person with one parent.
Colombia
Routine immigrant and nonimmigrant services are operating.
Cuba
The U.S. Embassy in Havana processes all immigrant visas and limited nonimmigrant visas (excluding B1/B2). Expanded categories now include A, G, H, J, L, O, P, Q, and R visas.
Dominican Republic
All routine services have resumed. New tourist visa appointments open weekly on Wednesdays.
India
Immigrant visa services are fully open in Mumbai. B1/B2 waiver appointments are now centralized in New Delhi. Applicants should use the new customer service platform.
Indonesia
All services have resumed. Certain applicants renewing prior visas may qualify for interview waivers.
Israel & Lebanon
Both countries have resumed routine services.
Lithuania
As of December 2024, immigrant visa processing has moved to Stockholm, Sweden.
Mexico
All immigrant and nonimmigrant services are available, with improved wait times. Urgent travel applicants may request emergency appointments.
Nigeria
All immigrant visa services are available, prioritizing spouses and children of U.S. citizens. Applicants must attend two in-person visits in Lagos.
Philippines
All services resumed. Applicants missing documents must reschedule, possibly delaying interviews by months.
Russia
All visa services remain suspended. Russian applicants must apply in Warsaw or designated posts in Tashkent or Almaty.
Sudan
Embassy remains closed due to violence.
Thailand, United Kingdom, Vietnam
All routine services have resumed.
Ukraine
Limited immigrant and nonimmigrant services have resumed, including K-1, DV, H-2B, and some C1/D and tourist visas.
Venezuela
All consular services remain suspended; Venezuelan nationals should apply in Colombia.
Stay Informed with Emandi Law
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