The E3 visa is still one of the best options for Australians looking to work in the United States, but the visa process itself can sometimes feel like a bit of a headache—especially when it comes to the in-person interview. However, it's now possible that some E3 applicants may qualify for an interview waiver meaning that in certain cases, you may be able to renew your E3 visa without having to visit a US consulate in person.
The first thing you should read on this is my article comparing an internal extension of E3 status (I-129) and getting a new visa here—because it's important to know that this article relates to getting a new visa from outside the country, not extending your stay from inside the US.
Also worth noting, this is different from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) which is more commonly known as the ESTA for tourist travel within 90 days to the US. This has nothing to do with ESTA.
So, who qualifies for this? And how do you actually take advantage of it? Let’s break it down.
Who Qualifies for the E3 Visa Interview Waiver?
The interview waiver isn’t available to everyone, but here are the key criteria that typically apply:
- You are renewing your E3 visa (not applying for one for the first time).
- Your previous E3 visa is still valid or expired within the last 48 months (this length of time may change and may be reduced under the current administration to 12-months so be sure to check back)
- You have not had any major visa violations or immigration issues.
- You are applying at a US consulate that is in your country of nationality (so, Australia)
- You meet the general eligibility requirements for a US visa and have no history of refusals (unless waived).
So basically, if you've had one before or you are on one currently, it's very likely that you're going to qualify for an E3 visa interview waiver if you were planning on renewing it in Australia.
How to Apply for an E3 Visa Interview Waiver
If you think you qualify, the key is that you don't really “apply” for the interview waiver at all, you will be routed into the pathway that directs you there.
- Complete the DS-160 Form – This is the standard visa application form. Fill it out online and save the confirmation number.
- Go to the USTravelDocs – Create an account on this nightmare of a website (https://www.usvisascheduling.com/)
- Pay the Visa Fee – The MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee is required before processing.
- Check to see if you qualify – When you get to the point where you would normally be presented with an option to book an appointment, you will instead be asked a few questions to see if you qualify for a visa waiver and it will guide you through the process.
- Follow the Consulate’s Submission Instructions – Read the documentation carefully about how to send things in, and what exactly is required to be sent.
- Send in Your Passport & Supporting Documents – These often include your DS-160 confirmation, passport, current E3 visa, employment verification, and any other requested materials.
- Wait for Processing – If all goes smoothly, you’ll receive your passport back with your new visa stamp!
What about if you don't want the waiver?
Unfortunately if you don't want the waiver program and you'd prefer to just go in for an interview, you don't have a choice.
When you are posed the questions, it will follow a similar range to the “who qualifies for a waiver” above and it will be obvious what you need to check, but do not incorrectly fill this in.
Incorrectly filling this in is considered lying to US Immigration, and will not fare well later.
If you qualify, that's their new intended pathway.
How long does the waiver process take?
On average we are seeing these come back within two to three weeks from Sydney and Melbourne. This has been pretty consistent all throughout the time the visa waiver has been in place.
