Dubai: The visa application process for UAE residents travelling to the US will become more stringent from September.
Visa Application: The US Department of State has decided to withdraw many policies implemented during the pandemic. These changes will have a direct impact on most applicants, even those who were exempted from interviews till now.
The US government says that these steps have been taken to strengthen national security and keep a close watch on immigration. Let us know what major changes those applying for US visa from UAE will have to face:
1. Mandatory interview for most applicants
Starting September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants in the UAE will be required to have an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate in Dubai.
Many travelers were previously exempted from the interview stage during the pandemic, but this facility has now ended.
2. Age based exemption ends
Till now, children below 14 years of age and senior citizens above 79 years of age were exempted from visa interview.
But under the new rules, all these people will have to go to the embassy/consulate and give a personal interview like others.
3. Strict rules on renewal
Interview exemption will be available in some cases on B1/B2 (tourism/business) visa renewal, but the conditions will be much stricter than before.
Applicants must meet the following conditions to get the exemption:
- Application must be made from home country (country of nationality or residence).
- Visa must not have been cancelled before (or later approved correctly).
- Application must be made within 12 months of the expiry of the previous visa.
Note that even if these conditions are met, consular officers can still call for an interview at their own discretion.
4. New interview rules (from November 1, 2025)
Another major change will come into effect from November 2025. Now most immigrant visa applicants will be required to give interviews in their own country.
The US State Department has clarified that now the responsibility of scheduling the interview will be solely of the National Visa Center. Exceptions will be given in very few cases and under special circumstances.
5. Social media rules for student visas
From the end of June 2025, students applying to study in the US (F, M, J visa categories) will be required to keep their social media accounts ‘public’ so that US authorities can check their online activities.
Also, students will be required to list all social media handles or usernames used in the last 5 years on the DS-160 visa application form.
US consular officers have been instructed to check such accounts to identify any content or activity that:
- Is anti-American
- Supports extremist or terrorist groups
- Is violent, anti-Semitic or threatening
Even your old posts, comments, likes and engagement with online groups will come under scrutiny.
Officials have also warned that deleting your old posts or deactivating your account before applying could be seen as a negative signal.
It is better to use a consistent and clear username across all your platforms to avoid any suspicion.
Overall, the process for US visa applicants from the UAE has now become longer, stricter and more sensitive than before. So if you are planning to travel to the US in the future, apply only after being fully aware of these new rules.
