WILLEMSTAD – A significant change in U.S. visa policy is set to take effect on September 2, 2025, when nearly all applicants for non‑immigrant visas required to appear in person for an interview with a U.S. consular officer. This update comes as the State Department tightens waivers that had previously exempted many applicants, including minors and seniors.  

What’s Changing? 

The new policy drastically reduces interview exemptions. Only applicants in the following categories may remain eligible for a waiver: 

Private and official diplomatic visa holders (e.g., A‑1, A‑2, C‑3 except personal staff, G‑1 to G‑4, NATO‑1 to NATO‑6, or TECRO E‑1), 

Those renewing a full-validity B‑1, B‑2, or B1/B2 visa (or Mexican Border Crossing Card) within 12 months of expiry, who were 18 years or older when their previous visa was issued.  

Notably, groups previously exempted—such as children under 14 and seniors over 79—will now generally be required to attend interviews.  

Why the Change? 

The U.S. State Department is ramping up scrutiny of visa applicants in the name of security and regulatory integrity. As restrictions narrow, applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule interviews well in advance, as wait times may increase due to higher demand.  

What This Means for Curaçaoans 

Travelers from Curaçao planning to visit the U.S. on business, tourism, student, or work visas must now ensure they arrange for in-person consular interviews, even if their age or previous exemptions had allowed for waivers in the past. 

The days of dropping off documents for automatic visa renewals are ending for most. Prepare early, gather all necessary paperwork, and anticipate scheduling challenges under this tightened U.S. visa policy.