OFC Dropbox US visa: requirements, steps & common questions
When applying for a US nonimmigrant visa through the Dropbox (Interview Waiver) program, understanding the Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) appointment is crucial. This guide explains what an OFC appointment entails, how it integrates with the Dropbox process, and answers common questions to ensure your application proceeds without delays.
What is an OFC Appointment?
An OFC appointment refers to a scheduled visit to a designated Offsite Facilitation Center where applicants provide biometric information—fingerprints, photographs, and signature—to support identity verification for visa processing. These centers were established by the U.S. Department of State to streamline visa processing by separating biometric collection from the consular interview.
The Interview Waiver, commonly known as Dropbox, allows eligible visa applicants to submit documentation without an in-person interview by courier or drop-off at a Visa Application Center (VAC) Travel. Applicants must meet specific criteria—such as having a prior visa in the same classification that expired within a set timeframe—to qualify for the waiver.
Steps to Schedule an OFC Appointment for Dropbox
Determine Eligibility: Confirm eligibility for the Interview Waiver program on the U.S. TravelDocs site for your country U.S. Travel Docs.
Complete DS-160 & Fee Payment: Fill out and submit the online DS-160 form, then pay the visa application fee as instructed on support portals.
Log In to the Scheduling Portal: Use your profile to select the Visa Application Center for document drop-off and biometrics; the portal may automatically prompt an OFC appointment slot for biometric submission even for Dropbox applicants.
Attend OFC Appointment: Visit the chosen center to submit fingerprints, photograph, and signature; bring the confirmation letter, passport, and all required documents.
Is an OFC Appointment Required for Dropbox?
Yes. While the Dropbox program waives the consular interview, it does not eliminate the need for biometrics. The OFC appointment serves as the mandatory step for fingerprinting and photography, after which applicants drop off their documents at the VAC.
OFC (Offsite Facilitation Center): Dedicated to biometric collection (fingerprints, photo, signature) and initial document checks.
VAC (Visa Application Center): Location where applicants drop off passports and supporting documents; sometimes co-located with OFC but serves a distinct function in the workflow
Recent Eligibility Changes
In February 2025, the U.S. Department of State updated Interview Waiver eligibility criteria, narrowing the window for visa expiration from 12 to 12 months for certain categories and adding specific visa types under the waiver program
Common Questions
Can I schedule an OFC appointment before confirming Dropbox eligibility?
No. Eligibility must be established first via the TravelDocs portal; only then will the system allow you to book an OFC appointment and document drop-off.
What documents are needed at the OFC?
Bring your DS-160 confirmation page, appointment confirmation letter, passport, and any supporting documents listed on the embassy or consulate website.
What does ASC stand for in the visa process?
ASC refers to the Application Service Center, which performs functions similar to the VAC, handling biometrics and document submissions in some regions
