The re-election of Donald Trump as US President has brought notable changes to the country's immigration and visa policies, directly affecting expats living in the UAE. Known for his tough stance on immigration, Trump’s administration has introduced stricter regulations, leading to new challenges for applicants seeking US visas.

 

Key Policy Changes Affecting UAE Expats

Enhanced Document Verification

One of the significant impacts of Trump’s policies is the increased scrutiny of visa applications, especially for citizens of countries previously listed in the Travel Ban such as Iran, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan.
Applicants holding passports from these countries but residing in the UAE now face:

• Extended processing times, with some interviews delayed by 6 to 12 months.

• Strict document checks focusing on financial stability, sources of income, and ties to the home country.

This heightened verification process aims to minimise migration risks but adds an extra layer of complexity for applicants.

 

Special Attention to Domestic Staff Visas

Expats applying for visas for domestic staff such as household assistants and nannies are now subject to more stringent requirements. These include:

• Submission of proof of employer’s financial stability.

• Official employment confirmation and assurance of return to the UAE after the trip.

This additional documentation is now mandatory to ensure compliance with US immigration laws.

 

Entry Refusals at the US Border

Despite holding valid visas, some expats from the UAE have experienced entry refusals at the US border. Since the start of 2025, around 1.8% of travelers have been denied entry due to:

• Incorrect declaration of travel purpose.

• Lack of proof of financial stability.

• Previous visa violations or suspicious travel history.

While these incidents are relatively rare, they underline the importance of compliance with US border regulations.

 

Reduced Validity Period for Visa Renewal

Another significant change introduced in February 2025 is the reduction of the eligibility period for simplified US visa renewal.
The period for an interview waiver has been shortened from 48 months to 12 months. Under the new rule:

• Only applicants whose previous US visas expired within the last year may qualify for renewal without an interview.

• Applicants must apply from their country of residence and have no prior visa refusals or grounds of ineligibility.

• Consular officers still have the authority to require an in-person interview.

This rule change increases the urgency for those whose visas are nearing expiration.

 

Tighter Procedures, Longer Processing Times

The revised policies under Trump’s administration have made the process of obtaining B1/B2 (tourist/business) and F-1 (student) visas more stringent. Applicants are now required to provide comprehensive documentation to meet stricter migration control measures.

With growing demand from expatriates in the UAE and additional checks in place, delays and rejections have become common, prompting applicants to exercise greater caution and thoroughness during the application process.

 

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