The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi advises UAE visa applicants to anticipate potential processing delays as new in-person interview requirements for most applicants come into effect from September 2.
Addressing the expected increase in interview demand, an embassy spokesperson informed Khaleej Times that consular staff are “working diligently to ensure the visa process remains efficient, smooth, and effective” despite the changes. “Every visa decision pertains to national security, and we will take the time needed to make the right decisions,” the spokesperson stated.
For families or students in the UAE planning to travel to the US soon, the spokesperson assured: “In every case, we will take the necessary time to ensure applicants do not pose a risk to US safety and security and have credibly demonstrated their eligibility for the visa sought.”
Under the new policy, nearly all non-immigrant visa applicants, including individuals under 14 and over 79, must attend an in-person interview with a consular officer. Exemptions will only apply to certain temporary visitors under the B visa category and some official government travelers.
Regarding pending applications submitted before September 2, the embassy did not confirm any exemptions and instead directed applicants to check embassy and consulate websites for detailed information. The same response was given about a grace period for earlier applicants.
For urgent cases such as medical, educational, or humanitarian travel, the embassy mentioned that applicants may request expedited appointments, with each request evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
“The Department of State is dedicated to protecting our nation and citizens by maintaining the highest national security and public safety standards through our visa process. Effective September 2, 2025, we will update the categories eligible for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview,” added the spokesperson.
This policy change marks a return to pre-pandemic visa procedures when in-person interviews were standard and waivers were rare. During Covid-19, waiver eligibility was broadened to limit embassy and consulate visits.
With interviews now required for children under 14 and adults over 79, more applicants will compete for appointment slots, potentially increasing wait times across all visa categories.
Applicants should frequently visit the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate in Dubai websites for the latest document requirements, procedures, and appointment availability.
Those needing urgent travel for medical, educational, or humanitarian reasons can request expedited appointments. They must first complete the DS-160 form, pay the standard visa fee, and schedule the earliest available appointment. Then, using the ’emergency request’ feature, they can upload documents proving urgency. If approved, they receive an emergency appointment slot; if denied, their scheduled appointment remains unchanged.
With the anticipated rise in in-person interview demand and stricter screening, travelers are encouraged to begin the visa application process early and prepare for more detailed evaluations under the new security-first system.
