Following the Trump era,
With Effective from Feb 12, 2025, The US Embassy implemented a new rule regarding Dropbox visa eligibility.
Previously, applicants holding any class of visa—except for B1/B2—were eligible for Dropbox processing if their visa had expired within the last 48 months.
However, under the current rule, the eligibility period has been significantly reduced, allowing only those whose visas have expired within the past 12 months to use the Dropbox option, and That too, only if they are applying for the same class of visa as before.
Retroactively, appointments that have already been booked will be considered invalid if they do not comply with the updated rules, requiring applicants to reschedule their slots.
Summary:
within 48 Months Post expiry of visa of any class except b1b2 (Old Rule)= within 12 months Post expiry of visa with same class only (New Rule)
To convert a Dropbox appointment to a regular appointment:
To convert a Dropbox appointment to a regular appointment, first, cancel the existing appointment by selecting the 'Manage Appointment' option and click on cancel the appointment.
Then, wait for the 'Close and Start New Application' option to appear. Once it becomes available, click on it to begin a fresh application. Carefully review all passport details, select the appropriate visa category, and enter the DS-160 number. Answer the Yes/No questions, provide the delivery address, and choose the previous payment method. Once completed, you will be automatically directed to the receipt confirmation page. Click on it, proceed to the next step, and submit the application.
A new appointment slot must be booked, but it's important to note that an appointment can only be scheduled twice. If both attempts have been used, the system will automatically prevent further bookings, requiring a new fee payment to proceed.
Sources: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/en/renew-visa#waive-my-interview