U.S. Ends Dropbox for H1-B and F-1 Visa Applicants by September

The U.S. Department of State has announced a major policy change that will affect millions of travelers. Beginning September 2, 2025, most H1-B and F-1 visa applicants will no longer qualify for the Interview Waiver program, commonly known as “Dropbox.” Instead, they must appear in person for visa interviews at U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide.

This decision is expected to reshape how international students, skilled workers, and business professionals plan their U.S. travel and immigration applications.

Why the Change Matters for H1-B and F-1 Visa Applicants

For years, some applicants enjoyed flexibility through the Visa Interview Waiver program. Those renewing valid visas within a set timeframe could avoid appearing before a consular officer. Now, that advantage is being scaled back.

Under the new rule:

• H1-B and F-1 visa applicants whose previous visas expired within the last 12 months will no longer qualify for the waiver.

• The requirement now extends to most nonimmigrant categories, except for limited cases involving specific B1/B2 visa renewals.

• Children under 14 and adults over 79, who were previously exempt, must now appear for interviews unless otherwise exempted.

The policy shift highlights the U.S. government’s increased focus on in-person screening for security and immigration compliance.

Who Still Qualifies for Interview Waivers?

While the majority of H1-B and F-1 visa applicants must prepare for interviews, some categories remain eligible for waivers:

1. Diplomatic and official visa holders: Applicants under A-1, A-2, or C-3 categories (excluding personal staff or attendants).

2. Certain B1/B2 renewals: If an applicant received a full-validity B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa when they were at least 18 years old, and applies within one year of its expiration, they may still qualify.

Eligibility depends on strict conditions:

• No history of visa refusal.

• No signs of ineligibility.

• Application must be for a full-validity visa renewal.

This means only a narrow group of travelers will continue benefiting from the Dropbox system after September 2025.

Direct Impact on Students and Skilled Workers

The policy hits two major groups: international students (F-1 visa applicants) and foreign professionals (H1-B visa applicants).

• Students on F-1 visas: Renewal applicants must now attend interviews, adding wait times and travel costs. This could complicate back-to-back academic programs or internships.

• H1-B workers: Those seeking extensions or revalidation face stricter procedures. Even if employed at U.S. firms, they must appear at consular offices abroad.

Both groups form the backbone of U.S. higher education and specialized industries like tech, engineering, and healthcare. The in-person requirement may slow their entry into the U.S., especially during peak academic or hiring seasons.

Rising Costs: U.S. Visa Fee Increase

In addition to stricter interview rules, the U.S. government has increased visa fees.

• The cost of non-petition-based visas—including F-1, F-2, B1/B2, and transit visas—has jumped by more than 148%.

• Previously set at $185, the new fee places added pressure on students, families, and business travelers.

This sharp increase underscores the need for H1-B and F-1 visa applicants to plan finances carefully when scheduling their applications.

U.S. Department of State Position

The Department of State emphasized that the new system will:

• Strengthen security.

• Increase transparency in visa processing.

• Ensure fairness by treating most applicants the same way.

By requiring nearly all H1-B and F-1 visa applicants to attend in-person interviews, consular officers gain more opportunities to verify documents, assess intent, and detect fraud.

Reference: U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs

What H1-B and F-1 Visa Applicants Should Do Now

Applicants must adapt quickly to avoid delays and rejections. Practical steps include:

1. Book Interview Slots Early

   • U.S. consulates often have long waiting periods. Plan months ahead, especially during peak seasons.

2. Gather Strong Documentation

   • F-1 visa applicants should bring admission letters, SEVIS receipts, proof of funding, and academic transcripts.

   • H1-B applicants must provide employment contracts, petition approvals, and tax records.

3. Prepare for Consular Questions

   • Officers will ask direct questions about study plans, employment history, or return intentions. Clear answers are vital.

4. Plan for Fee Increases

   • Factor in the new visa fees when budgeting for studies, work relocation, or family travel.

Comparison: Old System vs New System

The U.S. policy change brings a sharp contrast between the old and new visa application processes. Understanding the differences helps applicants prepare better.

How This Affects Travel Planning

The new rules reshape how H1-B and F-1 visa applicants plan their studies, jobs, and travel. The in-person interview requirement creates extra steps, longer timelines, and higher costs.

For Students (F-1 Visa Applicants)

• Families must plan earlier to secure interview slots, especially during peak academic seasons.

• Delays could affect university admission timelines, orientation programs, and scholarship conditions.

• Extra costs from higher fees add financial pressure to already expensive study plans.

For Professionals (H1-B Visa Applicants)

• Companies depending on foreign talent may face workforce gaps if employees cannot return on time.

• Applicants must budget for consular travel, accommodation, and additional processing fees.

• Extended interview wait times in some regions could stall critical projects or work assignments.

Families and Travelers

• Parents sending children abroad for studies must account for unpredictable delays.

• Business travelers on B1/B2 visas may face tighter schedules when planning meetings or medical visits.

• Older applicants, who were previously exempt, must now manage the logistics of attending interviews in person.

Why Early Preparation is Essential

The combination of higher fees and mandatory interviews means early planning is no longer optional. Families, students, and businesses must now:

1. Book interview slots well ahead of travel deadlines.

2. Gather all supporting documents to avoid rejections or rescheduling.

3. Monitor embassy websites for changing wait times and appointment availability.

4. Budget for increased costs, including application fees, travel expenses, and potential rescheduling.

By acting early, applicants reduce the risk of missed academic start dates, delayed work assignments, and disrupted family plans.

Maple Crest Immigration Law: Helping You Navigate These Changes

At Maple Crest Immigration Law, our team assists H1-B and F-1 visa applicants with:

• Personalized case evaluation.

• Document preparation and compliance review.

• Interview coaching to increase confidence.

• Strategies to minimize delays and errors.

If you are preparing for a visa application or renewal after September 2025, now is the time to seek expert help.

Maple Crest Immigration Law can guide you through every step, helping you approach your U.S. visa process with clarity and confidence.