Are there L-1 renewal interviews at the consulate?

It depends. An L-1 renewal may or may not include an interview at a U.S. consulate. In many cases, applicants who have been interviewed before and have had no significant changes in their situation may qualify for an interview waiver, but this is neither automatic nor guaranteed.

The decision rests with the consular officer, and the criteria can vary between posts and based on your history and the documentation you present. For that reason, even when a waiver seems likely, the most prudent approach is to prepare as if the interview will take place.

• The interview may be waived, but the decision always belongs to the consulate.
• A consistent record with no significant changes helps support a waiver.
• Be ready to appear and explain any changes if requested.

Keep your documentation current and follow the instructions provided when scheduling your appointment at the consulate where you will be seen. Since interview policies change, confirm the current procedure through official channels (the consulate and the Department of State) or with a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.