UAE residents warned of potential delays in obtaining new US visas, Embassy offers clarification
Starting September 2, 2025, UAE-based nonimmigrant US visa applicants—including children under 14 and seniors over 79—will be required to attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the US Consulate in Dubai, marking a return to pre-pandemic visa procedures[1][2][3][4][5].
Impact on Travellers
This change means that mandatory interviews will be a part of the visa application process, even for those who previously qualified for waivers, including children and elderly applicants[1][3][4]. The increased demand for interviews is expected to cause longer queues and potentially slower visa processing, so applicants should prepare documents carefully and apply early to avoid travel disruptions[1][4][5].
Potential extra costs may arise due to travel requirements for in-person interviews, especially for families and students coming from locations far from the embassy or consulate[5]. However, those who need to travel urgently for medical, educational, or humanitarian reasons can request an expedited appointment[6].
Exemptions and Waivers
Exemptions will remain only for certain temporary visitors under the B visa category and for some official government travellers[7]. The Department of State will update the categories of applicants that may be eligible for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview effective September 2, 2025[8].
Preparing for the Visa Application Process
Travellers are encouraged to start the visa application process early and be prepared for more detailed evaluation under the new security-first system[9]. Applicants must first complete the DS-160 form, pay the standard visa fee, and schedule the earliest available regular appointment[10].
If an expedited appointment is needed, applicants can request one for urgent cases such as medical, educational, or humanitarian travel, with requests considered on a case-by-case basis[6]. All visa decisions are national security decisions and will take the time needed to get these decisions right, according to the embassy spokesperson[11].
Stay Informed
The Department of State is committed to protecting the nation and its citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through its visa process[12]. To stay informed about the latest information on required documents, procedures, and available appointments, applicants are advised to regularly check the websites of the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate in Dubai[13].
[1] US Embassy in Abu Dhabi [2] US Consulate General Dubai [3] State Department Fact Sheet [4] State Department Press Release [5] Gulf News Article [6] State Department FAQ [7] State Department FAQ [8] State Department Press Release [9] State Department FAQ [10] State Department Instructions [11] State Department Press Release [12] State Department Mission Statement [13] US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General Dubai websites.
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