US Visa Dropbox Eligibility Checker

The US Visa Dropbox, officially called Interview Waiver Program (IWP), allows eligible visa renewal applicants to submit their documents at a Visa Application Center (VAC) without appearing for an in-person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. This significantly reduces processing time and eliminates the need to travel to major cities for interviews.

As of February 2025, the eligibility window is 12 months. Your previous US visa must have expired within the last 12 months (not 48 months as it was during the pandemic). This is a significant change from the relaxed COVID-era rules.

Yes. Effective September 2, 2025, the Dropbox facility will no longer be available for H1B, H4, L1, L2, F1, J1, O1, E1, and E2 visa categories. Only B1/B2 tourist and business visa holders will remain eligible for Interview Waiver after this date.

After September 2, 2025, only B1/B2 visa holders who meet ALL these conditions: (1) Previous visa expired within 12 months, (2) Previous visa had full 10-year validity, (3) Applicant was 18+ when previous visa was issued, (4) No prior visa refusals or 221(g), (5) Applying in same visa category.

The 12-month rule means your previous US visa must not have expired more than 12 months ago to qualify for Dropbox. If your visa expired more than 12 months ago, you must schedule an in-person interview at the US Embassy/Consulate.

No. For B1/B2 visa renewals, your previous visa must have been issued with full 10-year validity to qualify for Dropbox. If you received a visa with shorter validity (e.g., 1 year or 5 years), you are not eligible for Interview Waiver.

Yes. Any previous visa denial or refusal in ANY visa category permanently disqualifies you from the Interview Waiver Program. You must attend an in-person interview. This includes 221(g) administrative processing refusals.

Required documents include: Valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, Appointment confirmation letter, One 2x2 inch photo, Previous US visa (if in old passport, bring both), DS-160 barcode page, and any supporting documents specific to your visa category.

Dropbox processing typically takes 3-7 business days in India, though it can vary based on administrative processing requirements. Check your passport tracking status on USTravelDocs for real-time updates.

Dropbox submissions are accepted at VAC locations in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. You can choose any VAC location regardless of your residence, though selecting your nearest center is recommended.

You can apply for Dropbox from select countries including Canada, Mexico, and others. However, third-country national rules apply, and eligibility may vary. It is recommended to apply from your country of residence or nationality.

If you are not eligible for Dropbox, you must schedule an in-person visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times vary by location - currently 300-500+ days for B1/B2 interviews in India. Consider applying early or exploring interview slots in other countries.

Yes. If you received Form 221(g) (administrative processing/refusal) on any previous visa application, you are not eligible for Dropbox. You must appear for an in-person interview where the consular officer can review your case.

After September 2, 2025, children under 14 will generally require an in-person interview (policy change). Previously, applicants under 14 or over 79 were exempt from interviews. Check current requirements on USTravelDocs as policies may vary.

To schedule Dropbox: (1) Complete DS-160 form online, (2) Create profile on USTravelDocs.com, (3) Pay MRV fee ($185 for B1/B2), (4) Schedule VAC appointment selecting "Interview Waiver" option, (5) Visit VAC on appointment date with required documents.