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6 reasons new US visa interview rule matters if you live in UAE

6 reasons new US visa interview rule matters if you live in UAE

September 8, 2025 Dubai
Dubai, UAE – September 7, 2025: A major change to U.S. visa rules took effect on September 6, 2025, impacting every UAE resident and expat applying for a nonimmigrant visa. According to the U.S. State Department, applicants must now schedule their visa interviews in the country where they legally reside. For the UAE, that means interviews can only be booked at the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or t...

the Consulate in Dubai. Here are six key reasons this update matters if you live in the UAE: 1. You must apply where you live Only residents of the UAE can apply in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. If you don’t hold a UAE residence visa, you must apply in your home country or your official country of residence. 2. UAE residency visa is now essential Your UAE residence visa is proof of eligibility. Without it, your application will be rejected in the UAE. 3. Applying abroad is riskier Trying to apply while visiting another country could raise doubts about your residency status and ties, reducing your chances of approval. 4. Fees are non-refundable Visa fees cannot be transferred. If you apply in the wrong location, you’ll lose your money and have to start over in the correct country. 5. Wait times may be longer outside the UAE Processing times vary worldwide. Applying outside your residence country could mean months of extra waiting for an interview slot. 6. Existing bookings remain valid If you already scheduled an interview in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, your appointment is safe and unaffected by the new rule. Why This Matters For UAE residents, the new policy means you should only book interviews in Abu Dhabi or Dubai to avoid delays, lost fees, or tougher scrutiny. The U.S. has also clarified that since it does not process nonimmigrant visas inside Iran, Iranian nationals must continue applying at the U.S. Consulate in Dubai. Travelers are strongly advised to confirm details on the official U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in the UAE before booking.

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