Congress placed new restrictions on access to the US Visa Waiver Program on December 18, 2015. Dual nationals of Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan may no longer use the Visa Wavier Program. Nor can individuals who have traveled to one of those countries since March 1, 2011 use the VWP.

Those in the above categories must obtain a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa at a US consulate before travel to the US. On February 18, 2016, DHS added Libya, Somalia, and Yemen to the list of “countries of concern.” Those who have traveled to Libya, Somalia or Yemen since March 1, 2011, may no longer travel to the US on the VWP. However, VWP travel restrictions do not apply to dual nationals of Libya, Somalia or Yemen at this time.

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Beginning on November 12, 2014, the US and China will increase validity of short-term business and tourist visas (B-1 and B-2 visas). They will also increase validity terms for student and exchange visas (F, M, J visas).

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On August 17, 2011, USCIS issued a Policy Memorandum regarding B-2 Visa Status changes and extensions for cohabitating partners, including same-sex partners and same-sex spouses, and other nonimmigrant household members. more »