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If your US tourist visa has already expired or is about to expire, you do not need to apply from scratch again. The United States government allows you to renew your B1/B2 visa through a consular process, and in some cases, you might even be eligible to complete the process without an interview.
According to the United States Department of State, renewal is not automatic. Each application is evaluated again, and the applicant must meet the requirements in effect at the time of the application.
How much does it cost to renew a US visa in 2026?
The application fee to renew a B1/B2 tourist visa in 2026 is $185 USD, equivalent to approximately 3,300 Mexican pesos depending on the current exchange rate.
It is important to consider that:
- La tarifa es obligatoria para cada solicitante.
- No es reembolsable.
- Debe pagarse incluso si la visa es rechazada.
Can I renew an already expired visa?
Yes. An expired visa can be renewed even years after it has expired. However, there is an especially important period: the first 12 months following the expiration date.
Those who submit their application within that timeframe could be considered for an interview waiver, provided they meet other requirements established by the Department of State.
Requirements to renew without an interview in 2026
New rules for the interview waiver went into effect on October 1, 2025. The Department of State notes that some B1/B2 visa applicants may be eligible if they meet all these conditions:
They are renewing a B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa.
The previous visa was issued with full validity.
The visa expired less than 12 months ago.
They were at least 18 years old when the previous visa was issued.
They are applying for renewal in their country of nationality or habitual residence.
They have never had a visa denial, or any such denial was subsequently overcome.
They do not present apparent causes of immigration ineligibility.
Even if these requirements are met, a consular officer may request an in-person interview at any time.
Step-by-step process to renew an expired US visa
1. Fill out a new DS-160 form
The first step is to complete the electronic DS-160 form for non-immigrant visas. Each renewal requires a new application.
2. Create or update your appointment account
Afterward, you must log into the official appointment system to schedule the process and answer the corresponding questionnaire.
3. Pay the consular fee
The $185 USD fee must be covered before moving forward with the process.
4. Determine if you qualify for an interview waiver
The system itself evaluates whether you are a candidate to submit documents only or if you need to attend a consular interview.
5. Submit documents or attend the interview
Depending on the result, you must:
- Presentar documentos en el centro de atención correspondiente.
- O asistir a una entrevista con un oficial consular.
6. Wait for the decision
Once the process is complete, authorities will review the application and determine if the new visa is approved.
What documents are usually requested?
Applicants generally need:
- Pasaporte vigente.
- Formulario DS-160 completado.
- Confirmación de la solicitud.
- Comprobante de pago de la tarifa.
- Documentación adicional que pueda solicitar el consulado.
Is it better to renew before it expires?
Yes. Starting the renewal before expiration or during the first 12 months after can facilitate the process and increase the chances of being considered for an interview waiver.
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