Can I apply for a US visa renewal with no interview while in the US?

score:5

Accepted answer

As suggested in the comments, posting my comment as an answer.

After a call to the US embassy in Moscow, two different people said that it is okay to schedule an appointment while in the US (I did mention that I'm required to confirm that I'm not in the US; they only said to make sure I'll be in Moscow during the appointment).

Upvote:-2

You can’t get a US Visa from inside the USA. If you want to extend your stay, you can apply for an extension or change of status as applicable to your case.

As for the application, yes you can apply for an interview whilst you’re in the US. There’s no restrictions on this. Answer all questions truthfully. You may also be able to schedule appointments in Canada or the Caribbean. This is quite common for people on H1-Bs, who want to get their status extended after the first 3 years.(It must however be noted that the consulates in countries other than your country of residence are not required to process your application, in practice they will entertain your application as long as you’re in that country legally but the officer could deny your application and request that you setup an appointment in your country of residence)

Upvote:0

According to the US Embassy & Consulates in Russia website:

All Non-immigrant visa (NIV) operations across Russia were suspended beginning August 23, 2017. Non-immigrant visa interviews will be conducted only at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow.

The website also covers why you need an interview for nonimmigrant visas here:

  • Q: Why do I need an interview for a nonimmigrant visa?
  • A: The interview is a legal U.S. requirement that applies worldwide.

Exceptions:

  • Diplomats and official government travel (including UN, other international organizations, and diplomats in transit).
  • Renewal within same class of visa within one year of expiration (consular officer discretion – may require interview).

The exception does not apply to applicants who are applying for a different type of nonimmigrant visa. They must be interviewed.

As you have mentioned, there is an interview waiver submission process, but you must meet the qualifications, which are:

  • All ten fingerprints were captured at a prior consular interview
  • For holders of B1/B2 (tourist), I (journalist), or C1/D (crew) visas: Your most recent visa was issued after November 6, 2007 and is currently valid or you are applying within 11 months of the expiration of that visa. OR For holders of all other types of visas: Your previous visa is currently valid or you are reapplying within 11 months of the expiration of your previous visa.
  • You are applying for the exact same type of visa as your current/previous visa
  • Your visa does not have Clearance Received annotated on it
  • You must be present in the Russian Federation

You will need an interview in Russia, unless you have an extra set of circumstances you did not provide in your question.

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