---
title: United States visa for citizens of the United Arab Emirates
description: "Citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $160. Processing: 2–10 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/united-arab-emirates
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# United States visa for citizens of the United Arab Emirates

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

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

Official application site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ae/

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)** (Identity): Include all previous US visas if any
- **DS-160 confirmation page** (Identity): Printed with barcode
- **Appointment confirmation letter** (Identity): From US Travel Docs website
- **Photograph (5x5 cm, white background)** (Identity): Must meet US visa photo requirements
- **Proof of employment or study** (Employment): Employment letter with salary, or student ID
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds for trip
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Suggested but not strictly required
- **Round-trip flight reservation** (Travel, optional): Not needed at application, but may be requested
- **Hotel reservation** (Travel, optional): Proof of accommodation
- **Previous US visas or denials** (Supporting, optional): If applicable
- **Emirates ID (copy)** (Identity, optional): Resident UAE passport holders
- **Marriage certificate (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): For accompanying spouse
- **Birth certificate (for minors)** (Identity): For children under 18
- **DS-160 fee payment receipt** (Financial): Proof of visa fee payment

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ae/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for United Arab Emirates passport holders](/visa/passport/united-arab-emirates)