Parents applying for US visas for their children must ensure that the minor is physically present during the consular interview, regardless of age. The US Embassy in India has clarified that every minor visa applicant must appear in person at the interview window. This includes newborns, infants, young children and teenagers who are nearing 18.

The clarification was issued in a “Visa Friday” video shared by the embassy on X, addressing a common misconception that very young children may be exempt from the interview requirement.

The embassy said it is mandatory for a visa officer to see every applicant during the interview process, specifically citing newborns and 17-year-olds as examples.

The requirement is linked to the consular process, under which a consular officer must personally observe each applicant before a visa can be issued. The embassy described the interview as one of the most important stages of the visa application process, citing border security, national security and public safety as key objectives of the procedure.

Parents or guardians cannot appear on behalf of a minor to meet this requirement. The child must be physically present during the consular interview.

The requirement applies to children from birth until the day before they turn 18.

Parents must also ensure that the photograph submitted with a child’s US visa application meets the Department of State’s requirements.

The photograph must be 2×2 inches, or 51×51 mm. For digital submissions, it must be square, between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, saved in JPEG format and under 240 KB.

The child’s head should be centered and between 50% and 69% of the height of the photo. The background should be plain white or off-white, with no patterns, shadows or objects.

A neutral expression with both eyes open is required, although infants and toddlers may have a natural, calm expression.

The photo must be recent (taken within the last 6 months). Hats and head coverings are only allowed for religious purposes, and the face is clearly visible.

Glasses are not allowed unless medically necessary, and the eyes must be clearly visible. The photograph should also be high-resolution, in color and free of shadows, glare and red-eye.