13 Visa Updates That Could Derail Your 2025 Travel Plans

2. U.S. Visa Delays Continue: Interview Backlogs for B1/B2 and F-1

The U.S. continues to grapple with significant appointment delays for tourist (B1/B2) and student (F-1) visas in high-demand countries. Some embassies report interview backlogs stretching into late 2025. For students, this can jeopardize start dates; for tourists, it may cancel entire trips. Although the U.S. has launched interview waivers for renewals and certain categories, first-time applicants are still stuck in limbo. Expect long wait times in India, Nigeria, and Brazil. Travelers should apply months in advance and monitor regional embassy announcements for potential fast-track programs or cancellation openings.