New Policy Explained
US visa application from UAE will face stricter interview rules starting September 2025. The U.S. Department of State has announced that most applicants must attend their visa interview in their country of residence. This update is a major shift from earlier rules that allowed more flexibility in choosing interview locations.
Key Changes in Visa Process
The National Visa Centre will now schedule all immigrant visa interviews in the applicant’s resident country. Exceptions will only apply for medical, humanitarian, or foreign policy reasons. Even children under 14 and adults over 79, who were previously exempt, must now attend interviews.
These stricter rules apply to both immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas, including those under the Diversity Visa (DV-2026) program. The policy also cancels the flexible waiver system introduced during the pandemic.
Designated Visa Posts
Some countries without U.S. consular operations will have designated visa processing posts. For example, Afghans must apply in Islamabad, Iranians in Abu Dhabi or Ankara, and Syrians in Amman or Beirut. The rules will especially impact residents of nations where routine visa services are suspended.
Important Details for Applicants
Applicants with existing appointments should note that most will not be rescheduled or cancelled. Any request to transfer an interview location must now go through the National Visa Centre’s Public Inquiry Form.
Conclusion
The new rules mean US visa application from UAE is now stricter and less flexible. Applicants must prepare for in-person interviews, longer queues, and tighter screening procedures. Checking embassy websites for the latest updates is strongly advised.
