United Arab Emirates passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of the United Arab Emirates

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Tourist/Business Visa

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Official application site

Verified · Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Tourist/Business Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	2–10 days
Government fee	$160
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 Form Online
Fill out nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov and print confirmation page.
2
Pay Visa Fee
Pay $160 MRV fee using approved payment methods (card, bank transfer).
3
Schedule Interview
Log into ustraveldocs.com/ae, create profile, and book appointment at US Embassy Abu Dhabi or Consulate Dubai.
4
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents including passport, photo, DS-160, financial proofs.
5
Attend Biometrics and Interview
Arrive at embassy/consulate on appointment date; biometrics taken first, then interview with consular officer.
6
Wait for Processing
After approval, passport is usually returned within 2-10 business days via courier or pickup.
7
Receive Passport with Visa
Collect passport with visa affixed; verify all details are correct.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Include all previous US visas if any
DS-160 confirmation page
Printed with barcode
Appointment confirmation letter
From US Travel Docs website
Photograph (5x5 cm, white background)
Must meet US visa photo requirements
Emirates ID (copy)
Optional
Resident UAE passport holders
Birth certificate (for minors)
For children under 18

Travel

Travel itinerary
Optional
Suggested but not strictly required
Round-trip flight reservation
Optional
Not needed at application, but may be requested
Hotel reservation
Optional
Proof of accommodation

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Showing sufficient funds for trip
DS-160 fee payment receipt
Proof of visa fee payment

Employment

Proof of employment or study
Employment letter with salary, or student ID

Supporting

Previous US visas or denials
Optional
If applicable
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $100-200 per day of stay recommended

Bank statements
Salary slips
Tax returns
Investment proofs

Must show sufficient funds to cover trip expenses without working.

Good to know

Do not book non-refundable flights before visa approval.
Your passport must have at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay.
Visa issuance does not guarantee entry; US CBP makes final decision at port of entry.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong proof of employment, family, or property in UAE.

Incomplete or incorrect DS-160

Double-check all entries and match passport details exactly.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Be honest about past travel history; explain any issues.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Tourist/Business Visa.

How long can citizens of the United Arab Emirates stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of the United Arab Emirates?

Government fee: $160.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 2–10 days.

What documents do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity); DS-160 confirmation page; Appointment confirmation letter; Photograph (5x5 cm, white background); Proof of employment or study; Bank statements (last 3 months); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ae/

Sources

ustraveldocs.com

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