US visa rule change: What UAE expats must know about new interview restrictions

Dubai: The U.S. Department of State has changed how non-immigrant visa interviews are scheduled, and the update is significant for UAE-based applicants.

What’s new?

• You must now attend your visa interview in your home country or country of residence.

• The option to book interviews in third countries with shorter wait times has been removed.

• The rule applies to all major categories: Visitor visas (B1/B2); Student visas (F-1); Work visas (H-1B, O-1, J-1)

How it affects UAE expats

• Many Indians and other expats in the UAE used to apply in nearby countries like Singapore or Thailand to cut long wait times in India. That shortcut is now gone.

• Wait times in India already exceed 500 days for visitor visas. This could create more pressure for UAE residents who rely on consulates back home.

• Students, professionals, and families must now plan much earlier to avoid delays with study, job, or travel deadlines.

So..?

• If you hold a valid UAE residence visa, you can still attend your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate in Dubai.

• But if you’re a UAE resident who preferred booking faster appointments in other countries, that flexibility is no longer available.

What UAE expats must do now

• Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute—slots will fill fast.

• Track appointment openings on the embassy or consulate website.

• Prepare documents in advance to avoid rejections or delays.

• Students: Align your visa application with academic start dates.

• Business travelers: Build in extra time before travel commitments.

This rule change is part of broader efforts by Washington to standardize the visa process. For UAE expats, the message is simple: plan smarter, apply earlier, and expect tighter timelines.