“Everyone for an interview”: U.S. Embassy ends renewals without an appointment

Santo Domingo. - The Embassy of the United States in the Dominican Republic ended the visa renewal process without an interview, after implementing a change that forces almost all applicants to appear before a consul, even those who in previous years could renew by simply submitting documents. The immigration specialist Erika Reyes explained that the measure, in effect since October 1, 2025, profoundly modifies the exemption system that operated for more than a decade. “For years, renewing the visa was ‘a whole lot’ of paperwork and deposit. But since 2025 the Embassy changed the rules of the game… and now half the country is trembling!”, he pointed out.

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The change: the interview is mandatory again The Embassy announced that all non-immigrant visa applications, including renewals, must go through an in-person interview, except for very specific exceptions that only apply to specific groups, such as: Some temporary visitors category B. H-2A agricultural workers. Certain government employees on official mission. In practice, Reyes explained, this means that the vast majority of Dominicans who in the past renewed without an appointment no longer qualify for that benefit. Who must go to an interview compulsorily According to the specialist, these groups are not eligible for exemption: People who obtained their visa while being minors. Applicants with visas expired for more than 12 months. Those who have rejections, revocations, or any immigration incidents. Holders of visas with partial validity (1, 2 or 5 years, or single entry). Adults attempting to renew for the first time after having had their only visa as minors. Most applicants after the change, as established by the Embassy. "If it was issued when you were a minor, even if you are 40 or 50 years old today, you are obligatorily required to have an interview," Reyes reiterated. Who could receive exemption (very few cases)

Although the Embassy maintains the right to request an interview in all cases, Reyes indicated that an exemption could still apply for:
People whose 10-year visa was issued when they were over 18 years old, with an impeccable record.

Applicants renewing within 12 months of expiration. Those who maintain the same type of visa, without significant changes in their work, financial, or family profile. "There are few exceptions, and none are guaranteed. The Embassy decided to review each case more closely," he pointed out. Questions that this new policy opens Reyes raised concerns that he considers key in the public debate:

Does the Embassy harden the filter for migratory reasons?

Is it fair that those who obtained their visa as minors face greater obstacles when renewing?

Has the renewal become as complex as applying for the visa for the first time? Should the Dominican Republic negotiate special rules, as other countries do?

Does the increase in Dominicans residing illegally in the U.S. influence this measure?

The specialist concluded that applicants should prepare more rigorously, anticipating that waiting times for interviews could increase in the coming months due to the high volume of applications.