Heading to the US? New stricter visa rules and longer delays announced

The United States has announced new restrictions on visa applications which are expected to lengthen waiting times for many travellers.

In a directive issued on Saturday, September 6, the State Department said that non-immigrant visa applicants, including tourists, students, business travellers and temporary workers must now schedule interviews at embassies or consulates in their country of nationality or residence.

The change is intended to prevent applicants from bypassing long waiting lists at home by applying in third countries, a trend that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants are now required to demonstrate proof of residence in the country where they apply.

The Department also outlined new rules for nationals of 17 countries where routine visa services are not provided. Haitians, for example, must now apply in Nassau, Bahamas, while Syrians are directed to Amman, Jordan. Zimbabweans will be processed in Johannesburg, South Africa.

According to the State Department, fees for interviews booked outside an applicant’s home country will not be refunded, and such applicants should expect “significantly longer” delays in securing an appointment.

Existing appointments, however, will not normally be cancelled. Diplomats, government officials and United Nations travellers are exempt.

This latest directive follows a series of immigration-related measures introduced by the Trump administration, including a requirement for some visitors to post bonds of up to $15,000 and the introduction of a “visa integrity fee” of at least $250.

Concerns have been raised that the new rule could add to delays ahead of major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to attract record crowds to venues across the United States.