US embassy in Cairo urges early visa renewal applications as in-person interviews return

Ahram Online , Sunday 17 Aug 2025

The US Embassy in Cairo is advising Egyptian non-immigrant visa applicants to book their appointments as early as possible, as the mail-in drop box programme is being discontinued in line with a recent State Department announcement.

File Photo: An American flag on a pole in front of The US Embassy building in Cairo, Egypt. Photo courtesy of The US Embassy in Cairo Facebook page.

The update means all applicants, including those renewing their visas, must now schedule and appear for an in-person interview.

Previously, the mail-in renewal process allowed many applicants to submit their documents without an in-person meeting; however, this change marks a return to standard visa processing procedures.

In late July, the US State Department announced that eligibility for nonimmigrant interview waivers at US consular posts abroad will be restricted to only certain B visa renewals and diplomatic or official visa applications.

Applicants in all other nonimmigrant visa categories—including H-1B (for special foreign workers), L (for intracompany transfers of managers, executives), and F (for academic students)—will be required to appear for in-person interviews.

Additionally, the age range for required interviews will be broadened to include those under 14 and over 79.

The State Department said the update is effective immediately.