New Rule on Immigrant Visa Interview Transfers

The U.S. Department of State has recently announced a major change to the way immigrant visa interviews will be scheduled and transferred. This new rule, which takes effect on November 1, 2025, significantly impacts applicants worldwide. At Omole Law Firm, we want our clients and community to fully understand how this affects their immigration process.

What Has Changed?

Under the new rule, immigrant visa applicants will generally be required to attend their interview in the U.S. consular district where they currently reside. While applicants may request to be interviewed in their country of nationality, that option will only be approved under limited circumstances and may require documentation. The Department of State has emphasized that exceptions will be rare and reserved for special cases such as humanitarian or medical reasons.

Why This Matters

In the past, many applicants could request their interviews at posts outside of their country of residence. This flexibility often allowed individuals to choose locations with shorter wait times or more efficient processing. Under the new system, this flexibility will be sharply reduced, and the focus will be on processing interviews in the applicant’s country of residence.

For individuals living in countries where U.S. consulates have suspended or limited immigrant visa operations, the State Department has designated alternate posts. For example:

• Iranian residents may process their cases in Abu Dhabi, Ankara, or Yerevan.

• Haitian residents will be processed in Nassau, Bahamas.

• Syrian residents may be scheduled in Amman or Beirut.

These designated posts are specifically assigned to ensure that applicants from affected countries are not left without access to processing.

Transfers After Scheduling

If you wish to transfer your case after the National Visa Center (NVC) has already scheduled your interview, you must submit a written request using the NVC Public Inquiry Form. Importantly, applicants should not contact the consular post directly for transfer requests. The NVC may require proof of your current residence or, if applicable, nationality, to consider your request. Keep in mind that approvals will only be granted under very limited circumstances.

Impact on Current Appointments

The State Department has confirmed that existing scheduled appointments will not be automatically rescheduled or canceled. If you already have an interview date, you should plan to attend as scheduled, unless you have a valid reason to request a transfer through the NVC.

What Applicants Should Do

• Verify your residence information to ensure your interview will be scheduled correctly.

• Prepare documentation if you plan to request an interview in your country of nationality.

• Do not delay in communicating with the NVC if you believe you need a transfer.

• Stay informed about which consular posts are designated for applicants from your country, if local visa operations are suspended.

Omole Law Firm Can Help

This new rule adds another layer of complexity to the immigrant visa process. At Omole Law Firm, we guide clients through each step, from petition approval to the consular interview stage. If you are unsure about how this rule affects your case—or if you need assistance requesting a transfer—we are here to help.

Contact us today at Omole Law Firm to schedule a consultation. We are committed to making sure your immigration journey is as smooth and successful as possible.