U.S. Embassy Requires In‑Person Interviews for All Minor Visa Seekers

The U.S. Embassy in India has issued a clear reminder that every minor applying for a U.S. visa – even newborns and infants – must appear in person for the mandatory consular interview. The clarification comes after several inquiries from families planning trips to the United States for education, work, or family reunification.

Applicants of any age under 18 will need to schedule a slot, travel to the embassy or consulate, and sit with a consular officer while their documents are reviewed. The requirement applies to all visa categories, including tourist, student and work visas. Parents or legal guardians must accompany the child, and the interview will focus on verifying the applicant’s identity and purpose of travel.

For the South‑Asian diaspora, this means that planning timelines need to accommodate an extra travel step for even the youngest family members. Ignoring the rule could lead to application delays or denials, potentially disrupting study plans, employment start dates, or family visits. The embassy advises applicants to check appointment availability early and to bring all required supporting paperwork to avoid setbacks.

Staying informed about these procedural nuances helps Indian families navigate the visa process more smoothly and ensures that no member of the household is left behind.