How to Apply for B1/B2 Visa from Dubai – Detailed Guide

If you want to enter the USA for either business or tourism, you need to apply B1/B2 visa from Dubai. To apply for a B1/B2 US visa, you should understand all the details carefully. The process can feel overwhelming, as it involves multiple steps and documentation.

This ultimate guide is for UAE residents who are planning a trip to the United States for business, leisure, or both. We have curated this guide covering everything you need to know, from eligibility to the appointment process in Dubai. Read till the end to understand the exact US visa process and steps involved for UAE residents.

The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the U.S. government for short-term visits. It combines two categories:

• B1 Visa or Business Visa: For attending conferences, business meetings, contract negotiations, or other business-related activities.
• B2 Visa or Tourist Visa: For leisure travel, family visits, medical treatment, or cultural events.
  

Together, the B1/B2 visa provides flexibility for both professional and personal travel.

To apply for a B1/B2 visa from Dubai, UAE residents must meet certain eligibility requirements:

1. Residency in the UAE
   

   • Applicants must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
   • Both expats and Emiratis are eligible to apply.
     

2. Purpose of Visit
   

   • You must be traveling for temporary purposes such as business, tourism, or medical treatment.
   • The B1/B2 visa cannot be used for work or long-term study.
     

3. Financial Stability
   

   • You should demonstrate that you can cover your expenses during your stay in the U.S. (bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship documents).
     

4. Ties to the UAE
   

   • You must show strong connections to the UAE, such as employment, business ownership, property, or family ties, to prove that you will return after your visit.
     

5. Clean Travel Record
   

   • While not mandatory, a history of travel to other countries (especially Schengen, UK, or previous U.S. visas) strengthens your application.
     

6. Valid Passport
   

   • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
     

The Travnook team assesses your profile beforehand to confirm eligibility and helps prepare the supporting documents to maximize approval chances.

Suggested Read: How to Apply US Tourist Visa from Dubai

• B1/B2 Visa Duration: The maximum stay per entry is usually up to 6 months, but the exact duration is determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at entry.
  
• B1/B2 Visa Validity: For UAE residents, validity varies as per their nationality. For some nationalities, the visa validity is often issued for up to 10 years, allowing multiple entries during that period.

This means you don’t need to reapply every time you travel, provided your visa remains valid.

Suggested Read: Different types of US Visa Categories for UAE Residents

Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form

The B1/B2 visa application form, known as DS-160, must be filled out online. It requires your personal details, travel history, purpose of travel, and employment details. Accuracy is critical, as errors can delay or deny your application.

The Travnook team helps applicants double-check every section of the DS-160 to ensure no mistakes are made.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee

Once the DS-160 form is completed, you will be directed to pay the visa fee. Payment can be made online or via approved banks in the UAE.

Step 3: Schedule a B1/B2 Visa Appointment in Dubai

After fee payment, you need to book your B1/B2 visa appointment in Dubai. There are two parts to this appointment:

1. Biometrics Appointment (VAC): At the Visa Application Center, where your photo and fingerprints are taken.
2. Consular Interview: At the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Dubai, where you meet with an officer who decides on your visa outcome.

With Travnook by your side, we will manage your US visa appointment booking, ensuring you get the earliest available slots.

Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents

Key documents include:

• Valid passport (with at least six months’ validity beyond your travel date)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Appointment confirmation
• Visa fee receipt
• Passport-sized photo (as per U.S. specifications)
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, salary slips)
• Employment letter or trade license (for business owners)
• Travel itinerary or invitation letter (if applicable)
  

Step 5: Attend Your Interview

During the interview at the U.S. Consulate, be prepared to answer questions about your travel purpose, background, and ties to the UAE. Honest, clear answers increase approval chances.

Pro Tip: Travnook offers mock US visa interview sessions to help you build confidence and avoid common mistakes.

Navigating the B1/B2 US visa process can be time-consuming. Our B1/B2 US visa experts specialize in handling the entire journey for UAE residents:

• Application Form Assistance: Ensuring your DS-160 is error-free.
• Document Review: Organizing your paperwork as per U.S. standards.
• Appointment Scheduling: Securing biometric and interview slots quickly.
• Interview Preparation: Providing tips and mock sessions to improve success chances.
• End-to-End Support: From start to approval, our team handles everything.

Suggested Read: How to Renew US Visa in Dubai

• Submitting incomplete or incorrect information on the B1/B2 visa application form.
• Missing your B1/B2 visa appointment in Dubai due to miscommunication.
• Failing to provide proof of strong ties to the UAE can cause suspicion of overstaying.
• Not preparing for the interview, leading to nervous or inconsistent answers.
  

Also Read: Reasons for US Visa Rejection in the UAE

The B1/B2 visa application process from Dubai is complex if not handled carefully. Taking help from a US tourist visa expert can make the process smoother and quicker for UAE residents. By working with Travnook Travels, you can rest assured that every step will be taken care of with precision. From filling out the B1/B2 visa application form to attending your B1/B2 visa appointment in Dubai, we understand each step.

So, if you are looking for B1/B2 US visa help in Dubai, contact Travnook visa experts and make your travel hassle-free.

1. How long does it take to get a B1/B2 visa from Dubai?

The timeline varies, but generally, it takes 2–4 weeks from form submission to visa issuance, depending on the appointment’s availability.

2. How long can you stay in the U.S. with a B1/B2 visa?

With a B1/B2 visa, travelers are generally allowed to stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months per entry. The exact length of stay is determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. If you need more time, you may apply for an extension with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your authorized stay expires.

3. Who is eligible for a B2 visa?

The B2 visa is for individuals traveling to the U.S. for tourism, leisure, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends.

4. How quickly can I get a B1/B2 visa?

The processing time for a B1/B2 visa depends on appointment availability at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. On average, it takes about 2–4 weeks from completing the DS-160 form to receiving your visa. However, in peak travel seasons, it may take longer. For urgent travel, you can sometimes request an expedited appointment, subject to approval.

5. Can I extend my B1/B2 visa stay in the U.S.?

Yes, you can apply for an extension with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before your authorized stay expires.

6. Is the B1/B2 visa multiple-entry?

Yes, most UAE residents are issued a multiple-entry B1/B2 visa valid for up to 10 years.

7. What happens if my visa is refused?

You can reapply after addressing the reasons for refusal. Travnook helps applicants strengthen their cases for reapplications.

8. Can Travnook guarantee visa approval?

No agency can guarantee approval, as decisions rest with U.S. authorities. However, Travnook significantly improves your chances with expert guidance.