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29 March 2024

US tourist visa for UAE: Faster, easier

Published
By Majorie van Leijen

Residents of the UAE who apply for a tourist visa to the US are now enjoying a simplified application process and reduced wait times, say US Embassy officials.

On January 6, a new US visa program was introduced by the US Embassy in the UAE. The program is aimed at simplifying the visa process and reducing the wait times for a visa appointment.

“Residents in the UAE can now use an online service to pay their visa processing fee, schedule an appointment at either the Embassy or the Consulate General in Dubai, and arrange for pick-up of issued visas,” said Christine Harold-Aluyen, Consul General at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

Half a year later, the results of the new system are clearly visible. “Appointment wait times vary during the year, but we have seen a great reduction in wait times under our new program.

“As we speak today, we have appointments available within two weeks and that is significantly less than at this time last year.

“Most individuals approved for a visa receive their passport and visa within 3-5 days after their interview,” said Christine.

“Requirements vary depending on the kind of visa you are seeking.  However, all applicants need to complete an online application form, provide a photo, and pay the visa processing fee.

“Applicants for a tourist visa need to satisfy a consular officer that they have a strong connection to a residence outside the United States and that any travel to the US will be for a temporary visit.

“The good news is that for many of our applicants, including Emirati citizens, we offer a 10 year, multiple-entry tourist visa, so you only have to do this once a decade.”

Although most residents may schedule an interview appointment at the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai, Iranian passport-holders may only request the interview at the US Consulate in Dubai.

Children under 14 years of age and adults over the age of 80 are not required to appear for an interview and their applications may be submitted via Empost courier services.

Once the visa is granted and stamped in the passport, it will be delivered at a designated Empost courier location. Applications can be completed at

www.usvisa-info.com

 

[Image via Shutterstock]