US visa interview waiver rules changed: What UAE applicants should know and who still qualifies, explained

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New US visa interview rules require most UAE applicants to attend in-person interviews starting September 2025/ Representative Image

TL;DR

From September 2, 2025, almost all US nonimmigrant visa applicants worldwide must attend an in-person interview.
The visa interview waiver program will mostly end, including for many UAE applicants.
UAE applicants should plan early, prepare documents well, and expect to visit the US Embassy or Consulate for their interview.

The US Department of State has changed the rules for visa interview waivers. Starting September 2, 2025, most people applying for a US nonimmigrant visa from the UAE will need to attend an in-person interview.

This is a big shift from the previous policy, which allowed more applicants to skip the interview by submitting their papers by mail.But now, nearly everyone must attend an in-person interview. This change is global, affecting applicants from all countries, including the UAE. The goal is to help consular officers better confirm identities and prevent fraud.So, if you’re planning to visit, study, or work in the US, this update will affect how you apply.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s new, who it impacts, and what you should do next.

What Was the Visa Interview Waiver Program?

Normally, when you apply for a US visa, you have to go to the Embassy or Consulate for an interview. The interview lets the consular officer ask questions and check your documents before deciding if you get a visa.The interview waiver program lets some applicants skip that step. Instead of going in person, they could send their application by mail.

The Embassy would then review the papers and issue the visa without a face-to-face meeting.This made things easier for many travelers, especially those renewing certain visas or with a simple travel history.

What’s Changing for UAE Applicants?

According to the official notice by The US Department of States, all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including applicants under the age of 14 and over the age of 79, will generally require an in-person interview, starting September 2, 2025. Most UAE applicants will have to attend an in-person interview at either:

The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, or
The US Consulate in Dubai

This applies to all nonimmigrant visas, including tourist (B-2), business (B-1), student (F-1), work, and others.

Who Still Qualifies for an Interview Waiver?

Some exceptions remain, but the list is much shorter now. You might still avoid the interview if you:

Are a diplomat or foreign government official applying under special visa categories like A-1, A-2, G-1 to G-4, NATO visas, or similar.
Are renewing a B-1 or B-2 visa (business or tourist visa), or a Border Crossing Card (for Mexican nationals) within 12 months after your previous visa expired. But you must have been at least 18 years old when the earlier visa was issued, have applied from your country of residence or nationality (in this case, UAE), and not have had a visa refusal that wasn’t later overturned.

Even for these groups, the US Embassy can still require an in-person interview if they think it’s needed.

What Does This Mean for UAE Visa Applicants?

If you’re applying for a US visa from the UAE, here’s what to expect:

Most applicants, including tourists, students, business travelers, and workers, will need to schedule and attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai.
The chance to skip the interview is much smaller. So plan for extra time to book appointments, which could take weeks depending on demand.
If you qualify for a waiver, you’ll find out during the online visa application process, where you answer questions about your eligibility.
The Embassy or Consulate may still call you in for an interview if they have doubts or need more information.

How Should UAE Applicants Prepare?

Start Early: Book your appointment as soon as you can. Interviews might take longer to schedule because more people need them now.
Check Official Sources: Visit the US Embassy Abu Dhabi or Consulate Dubai websites regularly. They post updates on visa rules, appointment availability, and any service changes.
Gather Your Documents: Prepare all your paperwork before your interview. This includes your passport, visa application form (DS-160), photos, proof of ties to the UAE, and any supporting documents like job letters or school records.
Be Honest and Clear: During your interview, answer questions truthfully and simply. The consular officer wants to understand your purpose of travel and your ties to the UAE.

What If You’re Renewing or Applying for Other Visa Types?

If you’re renewing a B-1 or B-2 visa, you might still qualify for the waiver, but only if your previous visa expired less than 12 months ago and you meet other criteria.

If not, expect to appear for an interview.If applying for other visa types like Student visas (F-1), work visas (H-1B, L-1, etc.), and other nonimmigrant visa, then applicants will need to attend interviews without exceptions (except for diplomats).So, if you’re applying for a US visa from the UAE after September 2025, assume you need to attend an interview. Start your application early to avoid delays. Keep your documents ready and be straightforward during the interview. Checking embassy websites regularly helps you stay updated on any changes.This new process is a step toward stronger visa security worldwide. It may take more time, but it’s important for your visa success.

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