US State Department mandates interviews for those under 14 and over 79 for B1/B2 visas

The US State Department announced that, starting October 1, 2025, all non-immigrant visa applicants, including those under 14 and over 79, must attend an in-person interview at consulates. The measure affects categories like B1/B2, used for tourism and business, and applies to citizens of countries requiring visas, such as Brazil. Previously, these age groups were exempt, simplifying the process.

The update aims to strengthen immigration control, per guidelines from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Consular officers now personally assess each case for eligibility.

• Consular fee remains US$185 for B1/B2 visas.
• Appointments must be scheduled via the State Department’s official website.
• Documents like a valid passport and DS-160 form are mandatory.

Details of requirements for specific age groups

Children under 14 must now accompany parents or guardians to interviews, which may require family scheduling adjustments. The process takes place at embassies or consulates, such as those in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Recife in Brazil.

The 79-year age limit eliminates prior exemptions for seniors, requiring health and travel intent verification. This change applies globally, impacting millions of annual applications.

Exceptions maintained in the new regulation

Diplomats and foreign government officials remain exempt, as do representatives of international organizations and NATO. These categories include A-1, A-2, and G-1 to G-4 visas.

B1/B2 visa renewals issued within the last 12 months remain exempt, provided the applicant was over 18 at prior issuance and has no previous refusals. Other exemptions involve H-2A visas for seasonal workers under strict conditions.

Expanded consular evaluation criteria

Officers now consider social media posts promoting ideologies conflicting with US foreign policy. This analysis is based on the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act, updated to include public statements.

Procedures for scheduling and preparation

The process begins with filling out the DS-160 form online, followed by fee payment and appointment scheduling. Applicants must bring proof of ties to their home country, such as employment and family, to show intent to return.

In Brazilian consulates, interview wait times range from 30 to 90 days, depending on demand. Checking the embassy website for updates is recommended.

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• Prepare copies of recent bank statements.
• Include travel itineraries and hotel bookings.
• Avoid delays with incomplete documentation.

Implications for Brazilian travelers

Brazilians account for about 1.5 million B1/B2 visa applications yearly, per State Department data. The new rule may extend issuance times to up to 120 days during peak demand.

Travel agencies report a 20% increase in visa-related inquiries since the July announcement. Family trips to theme parks or visits to relatives now require earlier planning.

The measure aligns with national security policies, without changing the base visa cost.

Context of recent updates

The US government revised guidelines in July 2025, postponing implementation from September to October due to operational adjustments. This is the second major change this year, following the introduction of a potential US$250 additional fee, still without a set date.

USCIS manual updates incorporate risk criteria, such as involvement in groups deemed anti-American. The focus remains on short-term visas, without impacting permanent immigration.

Guidance to avoid common refusals

Applicants should clearly state travel purposes during the interview, which lasts about 5 minutes. Inconsistencies in statements can lead to immediate denials.

Maintaining a clean social media history is crucial, as public profiles are checked. Approvals depend on proving no intent for illegal stay.