Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. government will implement major changes in its visa renewal policies, requiring applicants to prepare in advance to avoid disruptions to their study, work, internship, or travel plans in the United States.
DISCONTINUATION OF MAIL-IN VISA RENEWAL (DROPBOX) FOR THE FOLLOWING VISA CATEGORIES:
According to the latest announcement, beginning September 2, 2025, the U.S. will officially end the no-interview visa renewal program (dropbox) for several popular visa types, including:
This means that: Even if an applicant was previously issued a visa, they must schedule an appointment and attend an in-person interview with a consular officer in order to renew their visa.
Can U.S. Tourist Visas B1/B2 Still Be Renewed by Mail?
The answer is YES, but under stricter conditions:
Only available to applicants who have never been refused a U.S. visa
Must still be within the eligible timeframe for renewal
Important: If you were previously denied a U.S. visa, even if you later passed the interview and were granted a visa, you will still be required to attend another interview when renewing your B1/B2 visa.
Recommendation: Renew Your Visa Before September 2, 2025
If you hold a visa of type F, H, J, L, or B1/B2 that is about to expire, we highly recommend:
Submitting your renewal application as early as possible before September 2, 2025
Avoiding the delay and hassle of undergoing another interview process
New Visa Fees Starting October 1, 2025
In addition to the process change, starting October 1, 2025, the U.S. will introduce a new fee:
Need Fast and Reliable Visa Renewal Support?
Contact the team at Vietnam Visa Services Center – Experts in U.S. visas, tourism, study, and work visas with years of experience.
We’ll help you prepare a complete and timely application while optimizing your chances of approval.
