Understanding how and when to renew your US visa is essential to avoiding setbacks on future trips to the United States.
If your visa is about to expire or has recently expired, knowing the correct procedure will allow you to renew it safely and in a timely manner.
Our immigration law firm in New Jersey will help you throughout this process.
Table of Contents
How to renew your US visa in 2025
Renewing a US visa varies depending on the type of visa you have. However, the process generally must be completed from outside the United States, through a US embassy or consulate.
Renewal typically applies to nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist, study, and temporary work visas. In most cases, the process includes:
- Complete Form DS-160 online.
- Schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate (unless you qualify for renewal without an interview).
- Present a valid passport, recent photograph and other documents required depending on the type of American visa .
It’s important to note that only certain applicants can renew without an interview, and diplomatic visas are the only ones that can be renewed within the US.
List of fees for renewing a US visa in 2025
The cost of renewing a US visa is the same as applying for a new one. Below is a breakdown of the most common fees this year:
- B visa (business or tourism): $160
- C-1 visa (transit): $160
- Visa D (ship or airline crew): $160
- E-1 and E-2 visas (Australian traders, investors, or professionals): $205
- F visa (academic students): $160
- H visa (temporary or seasonal workers): $190
- I visa (journalists and media): $160
- J visa (exchange visitors): $160
- K Visa (fiancé(e) or spouse of a US citizen): $265
- L visa (intra-company transfers): $190
- M Visa (vocational students): $160
- O visa (individuals with extraordinary abilities): $190
- P visa (athletes, artists and entertainers): $190
- Q Visa (international cultural exchange): $190
- R visa (religious workers): $190
- TN visa (USMCA professionals): $160
Please note that this fee must be paid even if the application is rejected, as it is non-refundable and non-transferable.
How can I renew my US visa online?
In some cases, it is possible to renew a US visa without an interview, provided certain requirements are met.
However, the process always begins online and must be completed through the appropriate embassy or consulate.
How long does it take to renew a US visa?
Processing times may vary depending on the country and the consulate’s workload. However, a renewal decision typically takes 7 to 10 business days after all required documents are submitted.
It’s recommended not to purchase travel tickets until you receive your visa, as some cases may take longer if they require additional review.
How do I renew my US ESTA visa?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is not renewed like a traditional visa.
Therefore, once it expires, you must submit a new application online through the official US Government visa waiver program website. To do so:
- Enter the official ESTA portal.
- Complete a new application with your personal and passport information.
- Pay the corresponding fee.
- Wait for approval, which is usually issued within a few hours or days.
The new ESTA will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Can I renew my US visa before it expires?
It is possible to renew your US visa before it expires. However, it is not recommended to do so too early, as this could raise concerns at the consulate about the actual need for renewal.
It’s best to wait for your visa to expire or start the process two to three months before your next planned travel date.
Only in specific cases, such as having a flight scheduled just a few days after the expiration date, could early renewal be justified.
Can I renew my US visa without an interview?
In certain cases, it is possible to renew a US visa without attending an interview. This option depends on factors such as the type of visa, the applicant’s age, the time elapsed since expiration and others.
Each embassy or consulate may apply additional criteria, so it is recommended that you check their official website directly to confirm your eligibility.
What happens if I don’t qualify to renew without an interview?
If the system determines that you do not qualify for renewal without an interview, you must schedule an in-person appointment at the consulate.
In this case, you should be well prepared. For example, bring all the required documentation and make sure you complete Form DS-160.
Documents required to renew an American visa
To renew your US visa, you must gather the following basic documents:
- Valid passport, with at least six months validity.
- Previous passport, if the expired visa is found in it.
- Confirmation of completed Form DS-160 online.
- Proof of payment of the application fee.
- Recent photograph, in accordance with the requirements established by the consulate.
- Any additional documents requested by the consulate, depending on your visa type or particular situation.
It is recommended that you check the specific requirements on the official website of the consulate or embassy where you will be completing the application.
Important tips for renewing your US visa
- Don’t wait for your visa to expire. You can start the renewal process before it expires, especially if you plan to travel soon.
- Carefully review Form DS-160. Errors in personal information may delay processing or cause rejections.
- Update your personal information. If you’ve changed your name, marital status, or employment, please submit supporting documents.
- Seek professional guidance. If you have any questions, it’s advisable to consult an immigration attorney.
How long does it take to renew an American visa?
Renewal times vary depending on the type of application and consulate availability. If you qualify for renewal without an interview, the process typically takes between two and six weeks from the time you submit your documents.
However, if you require an in-person consular appointment, the time may be longer, especially during periods of high demand.
How can we help you renew your American visa?
At Curbelo Law, we understand that every visa renewal has its own unique characteristics. Whether you need help completing Form DS-160, gathering the proper documentation, or resolving an immigration situation, our team is ready to assist you.
Contact us today and let us help you renew your visa with confidence and security.
