H-1B visa renewals lose 12-month interview waiver advantage from September; B1/B2 renewals without in-person interview to be allowed

Those traveling to the US on a B-1, B-2, B1/B2 visa may not require an in-person interview from September. However, applicants who previously held a visa in the same category that expired less than 12 months before the new application will no longer be eligible for Interview Waiver.

This means, H-1B visa and even F-1 student visa holders will stand to lose the benefit of the Interview Waiver from September.