State Department says nonimmigrant visa applicants should apply in country of residence

International students planning U.S. study should pay close attention to updated Department of State guidance on where nonimmigrant visa interviews should be scheduled.

Under instructions updated in July, nonimmigrant visa applicants should generally schedule interviews at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence. Applicants who apply elsewhere may face additional difficulty demonstrating eligibility.

The guidance is relevant to students who consider applying for an F-1 visa from a third country while travelling or temporarily living abroad.

The State Department says applicants relying on residence must be able to demonstrate residence in the country where they apply, while nationals of countries without routine nonimmigrant visa operations may need to use designated processing posts.

Students should check the latest instructions from the specific embassy or consulate before paying fees or booking travel for an interview.

Source: U.S. Department of State, updated July 15, 2026.