Travel rules change constantly, but September 2025 brought some of the most important updates in years. If you plan to visit the U.S., you’ll notice new requirements around in-person visa interviews and higher ESTA fees. This guide breaks down the changes clearly, answers common questions, and shows you how to prepare so you avoid last-minute surprises.

As of September 2, 2025, the U.S. State Department shifted its visa policy. Most non-immigrant visa applicants now need to attend an in-person interview. That means if you are applying for a tourist visa, student visa, or business visa, you will likely have to schedule time to meet with a consular officer instead of only submitting documents online or by mail.

The intention behind the change is to create a more standardized process. The reality is that it could add time and travel into your planning. Interviews are held at U.S. embassies and consulates, so if you do not live near one you will need to build that travel into your timeline.

For most people, the answer is yes. If you are applying for a new visa, expect to attend an in-person interview. During this meeting, a consular officer will ask questions about your trip, your background, and your documents.

There are a few exceptions. Diplomats, officials, and certain renewals may not require an interview, but these are limited cases. For everyone else, picture this: you schedule an appointment online, bring your passport and paperwork, wait in a consulate waiting room, and then spend a short time answering direct questions. It is not designed to be stressful, but it does require you to be physically present.

You can check specific requirements on the official U.S. visa site.

You must now apply in the country where you are a citizen or where you are a legal resident. This is one of the most significant shifts.

For example, if you are a Canadian citizen living in Spain, you will apply in Spain, not France or Italy. There are limited exceptions where you can apply in another country, but those must be approved and often take more time.

This means that if the nearest consulate is several hours away, you may need to travel just to attend the interview. Factoring this into your budget and your schedule is important. You can find the nearest U.S. consulate using the Embassy and Consulate Locator.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is used by travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver Program. Starting September 30, 2025, the cost of an ESTA will rise from $21 to $40.

That nearly doubles the price of travel authorization. It also means that if you know you will be traveling soon, applying before September 30 will save you money. The ESTA is valid for two years, so even if you do not have immediate plans, applying early can cover upcoming trips.

Applications are only valid on the official ESTA site. Avoid third-party services that charge more.

Small steps now can save you a lot of stress later.

You can use a written checklist and set reminders on your phone a few weeks before your deadlines. Sticky notes on your desk or a shared calendar with a friend can work just as well.

There are apps that can organize and remind you without leaving you to juggle everything in your head.

Pick whichever method feels easiest to follow. What matters is having a system that supports you instead of leaving you scrambling.

If you need direct help:

If you are feeling overwhelmed, call the consulate directly. They will ask for your passport number and travel details, then walk you through next steps. Having the number saved in your phone contacts before you need it can save a lot of stress.

Travel rules change constantly, but knowing what is different now keeps you a step ahead. A little planning today protects you from headaches later. Whether that is applying early, saving money on your ESTA, or building in extra time to reach a consulate, the goal is to keep your trip running smoothly.

Carry this clarity into your next journey, and let the rest unfold.