As the demand for US visas continues to rise, UAE residents are increasingly feeling the strain of lengthy appointment wait times. Current estimates indicate that applicants from certain countries face delays ranging from 9 to 12 months, with some nationalities experiencing waits of up to two years.
According to Anastasia Yanchenko, commercial director of Visa Services, several factors contribute to these extended wait times. 'The differences in wait times can be attributed to the applicant's passport. UAE passport holders benefit from a shorter queue compared to those from countries with higher demand and fewer available appointments,' she explained. For example, while UAE citizens enjoy a more efficient process, the wait for Indian or Russian passport holders is approximately a year, and it can be up to two years for Iranian passport holders.
One of the key factors contributing to these delays is the global accessibility of US visa applications. Individuals from various countries, including those without US embassies or those who have faced visa rejections in their home nations, also apply from the UAE. This influx of applications has created a bottleneck in processing times. Anastasia noted that many travelers choose to combine their trips to Dubai with visa applications. 'The 'American dream' continues to attract people from the region, further complicating the situation and delaying the process for UAE residents. Many view Dubai as a temporary hub as they seek to travel further,' she said.
Certain countries such as Oman and Kyrgyzstan have imposed local restrictions on US visa applications without a local residence permit, prompting more applicants to seek visas in the UAE. Various services are available to help expedite visa appointments, including specialists who can assist in navigating the appointment booking process, ensuring applicants can secure available slots more efficiently.
To minimize the risk of visa refusal, it is crucial to follow key guidelines. Ensuring your application is complete, providing accurate documentation, and presenting a compelling case can significantly improve your chances of success. Here are some effective strategies to strengthen your application: do not lie to the consul (neither during the interview nor on the application) — if discovered, a refusal will follow; demonstrate strong ties to your home country through property ownership, children in school, and transparent banking history; having a good travel history also matters; have a clear purpose for your trip; pay close attention to preparing for the interview.
As residents face long wait times for US visas, understanding the factors behind the delays and finding solutions can help make the journey smoother for those seeking to travel to the United States. A recent agreement between the UAE and the US has made it easier for UAE passport holders to travel to the States. They will no longer have to wait in the general queue after arrival; instead, they will enjoy expedited entry. UAE passport holders with valid US visas can apply for the Global Entry programme, but they will still undergo screening before being approved.
Once a US visa is approved, UAE passport holders can quickly check in at 75 selected kiosks, Global Entry kiosks at US Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facilities, or upon arrival at US ports of entry, bypassing the usual immigration lines and paperwork. When applying for Global Entry, travelers need to provide personal details such as age, place of birth, citizenship, employment status, passport information, and any criminal history or prior visa rejections or entry permits (if any). The interview, lasting 10 to 30 minutes, requires travelers to present ID documents and explain the reasons for visiting the US.
