Starting from 2 September 2025, the United States will enforce new and stricter rules for visa interviews. All non-immigrant visa applicants, including children below 14 and adults above 79, will now need to attend an in-person interview.
This change rolls back earlier exemptions and is part of a broader move towards tighter visa screening. The announcement came from the US State Department on 25 July. It follows the recent introduction of a new USD 250 processing fee for non-immigrant visa applications, which was implemented earlier the same week.
Who will be affected?
The new rules apply to those who need a visa to enter the United States. This includes anyone not eligible to travel under the US Visa Waiver Program. However, most Singaporeans travel to the US using this programme and are not directly affected.
Singapore is part of the Visa Waiver Program, which allows its citizens to enter the US for tourism or business without applying for a visa, for stays of up to 90 days. These travellers must still get approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), but they do not require a visa or an interview.
According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Singapore retains its position at the top, with its passport ranked the most powerful in the world. Singaporeans enjoy visa-free access to 193 out of 227 destinations, offering the widest travel freedom globally.
If a Singaporean traveller qualifies under the Visa Waiver Program and has a valid ESTA, the 2 September changes will not affect their trip, as per reports.
What is changing for visa applicants?
For those who need to apply for a non-immigrant visa, the new rules will make in-person interviews mandatory for all age groups. This means that from 2 September, even applicants under 14 or over 79 must attend an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
In addition, the eligibility for interview waivers during visa renewals is being narrowed. Only applicants who were at least 18 years old when their previous B-1, B-2 or B1/B2 visa was issued will now be considered for a waiver. The B-1 visa is for business, B-2 is for tourism, and the B1/B2 is a combination of both.
When do Singaporeans need a visa?
While most Singaporeans use ESTA to travel, there are some situations where a visa is still required. This includes visits longer than 90 days, travel for study, employment, or other non-tourism purposes.
Also, those who have travelled to certain countries — such as North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since 1 March 2011, or to Cuba since 12 January 2021 — will no longer qualify for ESTA. In such cases, they must apply for a visa and will be affected by the new interview requirements.
What is ESTA and how does it work?
ESTA or Electronic System for Travel Authorization is an online system used to screen travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries before they board a flight or ship to the US. It is not a visa, but a travel authorisation. Singaporeans travelling for short-term business or tourism must apply for ESTA before departure.
Once approved, ESTA is usually valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, travellers can make multiple short visits to the US without reapplying.
What should Singaporeans do now?
Singaporeans planning a trip to the US for tourism or business should first check if they are eligible for ESTA. If they are, they should apply for ESTA online and ensure their passport is biometric and valid.
If a visa is required, applicants must prepare for an in-person interview from 2 September onwards, even if they previously qualified for an interview waiver due to age.
The US Embassy in Singapore has advised travellers to check its website for full details and the latest updates on visa applications.
These changes reflect the US government’s increased focus on national security and stricter screening of travellers entering the country, especially those applying for visas.
