Written By: Alison Moodie
Updated March 21, 2025
Reprinted from Boundless
The State Department has removed a rule requiring consular officers to follow past decisions when reviewing Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) waiver requests. Now, each request will be considered independently, adding uncertainty for applicants. Previously granted waivers no longer ensure future approvals, making strong, well-documented applications more important than ever. The change applies only to NIV waivers, not immigrant visa waivers. Applicants should prepare for stricter reviews and seek legal advice to navigate the process.
