The new visa application guidelines apply to all types of visas; they do not include travel under the auspices of the United Nations, diplomatic, NATO visas, as well as visas issued under special circumstances for foreign policy and medical purposes.

The US embassy and consulates in countries where visa services are not available should apply for their visas at designated locations in the US, the statement said.

For example, Afghan citizens can apply in Islamabad, while South Sudanese and Somali citizens can apply in Nairobi, and Sudanese citizens can apply in Cairo.

Visa applicants must also provide proof of presence in the country where they are applying, the US State Department said.

It has been announced that visa applications from outside the country of residence will be difficult to obtain, and that visa fees will not be refunded.

It has been noted that visa appointments currently in progress will not be canceled.

In the past, it was common for people, especially in Africa, to book their visa appointments in a country other than their home country to avoid long waits and for other reasons; the new law will strengthen the US visa policy by eliminating this.