The United States will end its interview waiver programme, widely known as the ‘Dropbox’ facility, for most non-immigrant visa categories, including work and student visas, starting September 2, 2025.
For years, Dropbox allowed eligible travellers to bypass in-person interviews and simply submit documents at a designated location.
The change, announced last month as part of President Donald Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ (signed July 4), is aimed at “enhancing security” and tightening screening. Immigration advocates warn it will cause delays and travel disruptions, especially in countries like India.
What’s changing
· Most renewals lose waiver: H-1B, H-4, L-1, F, M, O-1, J and other categories will now require an in-person interview.
· Age-based exemptions end: Children under 14 and seniors over 79 must also appear before a consular officer.
· Fewer exceptions: Only select diplomatic/official visa categories (A, G, NATO, TECRO) and a narrow set of B-1/B-2 renewals under strict conditions remain eligible.
· Consular discretion remains: Even if you meet the criteria, an interview can still be required.
Why India will feel the impact
India is among the top users of Dropbox. The removal is expected to:
· Increase demand for interview slots.
· Push wait times into months.
· Disrupt corporate projects for H-1B staff.
· Delay academic timelines for students.
Some August-September Dropbox slots in India have already been cancelled, with applicants told to book in-person interviews instead.
Dropbox appointment cancellation
· Check for cancellation emails from your consulate.
· Log in to your visa profile to rebook under new rules.
· Restart your application to answer updated eligibility questions.
Note: Cancellations don’t count towards your maximum reschedule limit.
From September 2025, most US visa applicants, including frequent travellers, will need to prepare for longer waits and in-person interviews.
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