Visa Applications
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Department of State Severely Restricts Third-Country National Visa Applications

Maggio Kattar

The U.S. Department of State has announced updated guidance that significantly affects where foreign nationals may apply for U.S. nonimmigrant visas.

Key Changes to Visa Applications

  • Residence Requirement: Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas must now schedule their visa interviews at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or country of residence.
  • End of Canadian Processing for TCNs: U.S. consular posts in Canada will no longer accept Third-Country National (TCN) visa applications. A TCN is an individual applying for a U.S. visa in a country other than their nationality or residence.
  • Designated Locations for Certain Nationalities: Nationals of countries where the U.S. does not conduct routine visa operations must apply at specific designated posts.

Additional Notes

  • Fees: Visa application fees will not be refunded or transferred if an applicant applies outside their nationality or residence and is refused.
  • Existing Appointments: Already scheduled nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally not be cancelled.
  • Exceptions: Certain categories, such as diplomatic (A, G, NATO, etc.), remain unaffected. Humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy exceptions may also apply.

Employer Considerations

Employers should anticipate impacts on employees who traditionally relied on U.S. consular posts in Canada for visa renewal or initial stamping. We recommend:

  • Planning for employees to return to their home country or country of residence for visa applications.
  • Factoring in longer timelines due to appointment delays and international travel.
  • Communicating these changes with employees to adjust work and travel plans accordingly.

For the full announcement, visit the Department of State’s notice: Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in Their Country of Residence (September 6, 2025).