If you’re in the UAE and thinking about applying for a US visa, here’s the tea: as of Monday morning (June 9), some major travel restrictions just dropped. The country has hit pause on visa applications for citizens of certain countries – and yep, it could totally throw a wrench in your plans.
It’s all part of a new Presidential Proclamation that claims to “enhance national security” with tougher screening. But for many, it basically translates to: no visa, no entry. So if you’re from one of the affected countries, that American dream might need a serious rain check.
Who’s Affected? Citizens of 19 Countries, Read On!
Getting deja vu? You’re not alone. This is the latest reboot of Trump’s infamous travel ban from 2017: you know, the one that caused total airport chaos and months of courtroom drama. Now, 8+ years later, it’s back… and it’s broader.
Here’s the catch – this rule targets anyone outside the US who didn’t already have a valid US visa by Monday. So even if you’ve got your interview booked and your paperwork in order, you could still be turned away.
Already have a visa in hand? You’re safe, this won’t cancel it. But if you’re applying now and you’re from one of these 19 countries – you’re facing a very real brick wall.
Full US Visa Freeze for These 12 Countries
Citizens from these 12 countries are currently completely blocked from getting both immigrant and non-immigrant US visas:
- Afghanistan
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Partial US Visa Ban for These 7 Nations
For these countries, the ban is slightly less harsh, but still a serious hurdle. Business, tourist (nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas), F,M & J student and exchange, along with immigrant visas are restricted:
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
Not All Doors Are Closed: Who’s Exempt
A few groups are being granted exceptions. So don’t hit full panic mode just yet. Here’s who’s still allowed through:
- Immediate relatives of US citizens (spouses, kids, parents)
- US government employees and SIV holders
- Adopted children of US citizens
- Current Green Card holders (LPRs)
- Members of ethnic minorities and those facing persecution in Iran
- Dual nationals applying with an unaffected passport
- Athletes in major international sporting events
So yes, there’s a sliver of hope, but only for very specific cases.
Check Before You Apply
If you’re in the UAE and hold a passport from one of the 19 listed countries, double-check your eligibility before investing time, money, and hope into a US visa application. This is not a soft rule. It’s official and effective now.
You may also like: Wondering If You Have A Travel Ban? UAE residents Are Now Using This Tool To Check Bans And Legal Cases Instantly
